Nose

The opaque, dark ruby 2008 Beckstoffer Dr. Crane reveals concentrated aromas of ripe
boysenberry, black cherry and dried herbs.

Palate

The dense, powerful palate boasts rich flavors
of black currant, Bing cherry, dark‐roast espresso, pencil shavings and sandlewood.    The
extended finish is supported by soft, silky tannins and accentuated by a spice box of sage
and tobacco.

Growing Conditions

2008 began with an exceptionally dry spring and early budbreak.  Frosts in
April significantly lowered cluster counts. Weather stabilized and warmed through summer,
with warmer temperatures continuing through harvest.  A smaller crop of high quality fruit
was able to ripen fully and evenly, developing an excellent balance of sugars and acid.  
Overall, the 2008 wines are bright and expressive with well‐articulated flavors.

Harvest

Hand‐harvested grapes.

Bottling

Unfined and unfiltered; bottled June 2010.

Winemaking

 Fermented in small, closed‐top stainless steel fermentors with indigenous yeasts
 6‐day cold soak, 34 days total maceration  
 Spontaneous malolactic fermentation in barrels 

Aging

Aged 20 months in French oak barrels; 100% new.