2021 Beckstoffer Cabernet Sauvignon George III Empyrean

In the end, I had a slight preference for the blended Georges III over the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Empyrean, which emanates primarily from a single block of the vineyard (A3). Scents of licorice, black cherries and cassis define the awesome nose, while the full-bodied palate is plush and creamy, with a long, velvety finish. Both are truly compelling wines from a vineyard that seems to be improving over the past few years. Mike and Leah Smith's own Myriad label seems to be going from strength to strength, although Mike sounded a bit of a cautionary note when I tasted with him last summer. "In 2021, it felt like the whole valley was in the zone, unlike 2022 or what we might see this year," he said. Bargain hunters will want to search out the blended Napa Valley Cabernet and Myriad's various Syrah bottlings (largely sourced from Bennett Valley) as alternatives to the high-priced single-vineyard wines.

The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard Empyrean is slightly tighter and reserved, with another level of purity and elegance, as well as more background oak. Lots of smoky black and blue fruits, graphite, tobacco, and lead pencil notes define the bouquet, and it's full-bodied and concentrated, with building tannins. It's going to require a solid 4-5 years in the cellar, but this is another spectacular wine in the making.