Rocksteady, Proprietary Reserve, Napa Valley, World’s End

The 2014 World’s End Rocksteady, named after a type of music that originated in Jamaica in the mid 1960s, this wine is a unusual (for the Napa Valley), a proprietary red blend with 49% Merlot, 18% Syrah, 15% Petit Verdot, 13% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. The Merlot was sourced from a Beckstoffer owned Carneros vineyard.

Immediately shows bright red fruit aromatics on the bouquet including red cherry, along with hints of mushroom, rosemary and sage and as the wine breathes further hints of dry earth and oak. Balanced with tannins that are long lasting and slightly chewy but not harsh. Lively acidity. French inspired winemaking makes this a Californian wine – with a twist!

James Suckling, 94 Points

„Impressive cool blue fruits with a very supple plum-flavored palate, which is wrapped in easygoing fleshy fruits. The flavors bolster through the finish with rich, toasty mocha oak influence. Smooth resolve. Very open-knitted. Drink or hold.”