2012 Alpha Omega Beckstoffer Missouri Hopper Cabernet Sauvignon

Alpha Omega in Rutherford was founded by Robin Baggett and Eric Sklar, who both have wine industry backgrounds. The winemaker is Jean Hoefliger and French wine consultant Michel Rolland is also part of the winemaking team. The estate makes Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Henrik Poulsen is winemaker. Consulting winemakers are Jean Hoefliger and Michel Rolland. Robert Parker has written that the winery “continues to turn out impressive wines that merit attention from consumers.”

Oakville AVA is one of the two or three most prestigious appellations in the United States. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, its 5,000 vineyard acres produce some of the world’s most acclaimed Cabernet Sauvignon, including such California “cult” Cabs as Screaming Eagle and Harlan Estate. Before those boutique producers rose to fame in the 1990s, Oakville was already renowned as home to Robert Mondavi, Opus One and Groth Vineyards, among others. Along with the famous wineries, there are premier vineyards in this AVA, including Martha’s Vineyard and To Kalon Vineyard. To Kalon was first planted in 1868 by H.W. Crabb, one of California’s first viticultural researchers, and he named the vineyard after the ancient Greek phrase for “most beautiful.” Though many grapes can be successfully grown in Oakville, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. Merlot and Chardonnay are also frequently planted. Oakville Cabs are prized for their richness, complexity and weight. Oakville was designated as an AVA in 1993.

One of the most widely grown grape varieties, it can be found in nearly every wine growing region. A cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a hardy vine that produces a full-bodied wine with high tannins and great aging potential.