2018 Realm Beckstoffer To Kalon

Realm Cellars is one of the most exciting stories in Napa Valley today. Realm began in 2002 by sourcing fruit from top vineyards like Beckstoffer To Kalon and Dr. Crane. Like any entrepreneurial endeavor, the early years were full of ups and downs, but eventually the winery found its stride. Beginning with the 2012 vintage, wine quality significantly improved and they have since garnered 17 100-point scores from various wine critics. In 2015, Realm acquired a hillside estate in the Stags Leap District which transformed the brand from a virtual winery to a domaine. The first estate wine in the portfolio is called Moonracer and each bottle showcases a unique label. In 2018 Realm entered into a partnership with the Farella family which adds the Farella Vineyard in Coombsville as the second estate vineyard. The portfolio of wines includes both single vineyards as well as proprietary blends. The winery is led by owner Scott Becker and winemaker Benoit Touquette. This domaine is one to watch as Realm continues its ascent into the top echelon of the wine world.

To- Kalon is one of the most famous vineyards in Napa Valley, often called the first “grand cru” California vineyard. It has always inspired those who live near it. Native Americans called the area around it tu-la-halusi – meaning “beautiful land.” And later residents called it To-Kalon, Greek for “the most beautiful.” Originally planted by Hamilton Crabb in 1968, it today is owned by Andy Beckstoffer, the Robert Mondavi Winery and Opus One. Beckstoffer owns the lion’s share, with an 89-acre vineyard planted to Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Beckstoffer sell To-Kalon grapes to such acclaimed producers as Schrader, Paul Hobbs, Tor Kenward, Realm, Alpha Omega and the Morlet Family. Beckstoffer Vineyards, a vineyard management business, owns and farms more than 3,600 acres of highly prestigious grape growing acreage in Napa Valley, Mendocino County and the Red Hills of Lake County. A senior executive with Heublein in the 1960s, Andy Beckstoffer is credited with steering Napa Valley vintners towards improving farming and the quality of the grapes used for wine.