Schrader Cellars

The Beckstoffer Las Piedras Vineyard, located in Northwest St. Helena, boasts a viticultural lineage of more than 150 years, dating back to the 1840s when it was planted by Edward Bale. The name translates from Spanish to “the stones,” which aptly describes the soil composition of the vineyard. The high concentration of rocks and pebbles allows for easy drainage and causes the roots of the vines to grow deep in search of water and nutrients. The gravelly terrain shows through in the wine, imparting an elegant minerality that sings its way through a dense structure of lush black and blue fruit, a signature of this distinctive estate.

Old Sparky, the highest marque of the Schrader portfolio utilizes the best barrel lots from the Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard and is only sold in magnum format. Originally planted by pioneer Hamilton Crabb in 1868, To Kalon – meaning highest beauty in Greek – is a noble “first growth” estate in Oakville that has established itself as the preeminent source of Napa Valley’s finest grapes. The vineyard is defined by its high mineral content and exceptional drainage and offers optimal north-south sun exposure by day with cool coastal breezes at night which we feel is the ideal environment for growing our Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, first planted in 1868 by viticultural and winemaking icon Hamilton Crabb, has long been regarded as the source of Napa Valley’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Within the vineyard, an alluvial fan provides excellent mineral deposits, and the rich soils are filled with marine sediment. The vines receive full sun and optimal heat during the day and are cooled by marine fog at night. These conditions allow each of the three clones planted in this vineyard (4, 6, and 337), to display its own unique character, and this celebration of individuality is the essence of Schrader.

The Beckstoffer To Kalon Vineyard in Oakville, first planted in 1868 by viticultural and winemaking icon Hamilton Crabb, has long been regarded as the source of Napa Valley’s finest Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Within the vineyard, an alluvial fan provides excellent mineral deposits, and the rich soils are filled with marine sediment. The vines receive full sun and optimal heat during the day and are cooled by marine fog at night. These conditions allow each of the three clones planted in this vineyard (4, 6, and 337), to display its own unique character, and this celebration of individuality is the essence of Schrader. A true powerhouse, this completely compelling pure clone 6 Cabernet Sauvignon is all about everything in abundance, yet with everything in perfect balance.