Schrader 2018 Heritage Clone

The debut release of the Schrader 2018 Heritage Clone presents a compelling expression of To Kalon Vineyard's renowned N2S block. This Cabernet Sauvignon captivates the senses with its inky, opaque color, foreshadowing the depth that unfolds in the glass. The nose is an intoxicating bouquet of ripe black and purple fruits, an aromatic dance that intertwines blackberries, dark cherries, and hints of blueberries. As it graces the palate, the wine exhibits a remarkable density, showcasing the richness inherent in the Heritage Clone. Fine-grained tannins provide structure to the velvety texture, creating a harmonious balance. The flavors evolve with each sip, revealing layers of complexity, from the vibrant fruit core to subtle undertones of cocoa, espresso, and a whisper of cedar. The finish is enduring and promising, hinting at the wine's potential for graceful evolution with time in the bottle. The 2018 Heritage Clone is a testament to the extraordinary character of To Kalon Vineyard and the meticulous craftsmanship of Schrader Cellars.

Robert Parker - 97+ Points

"This is the very first vintage of this new label for Schrader. True to Schrader form, the wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon from a single block in the southern part of Mondavi’s section of To Kalon vineyard. The “Heritage Clone,” a.k.a. clone 39, is pretty much exclusive to Mondavi To Kalon, with the exception of some cuttings Robert Mondavi may have given out. Winemaker Thomas Rivers Brown noted that this clone produces very small bunches and tiny berries, equating to super intense fruit. The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Mondavi Heritage Clone To Kalon Vineyard was aged in 100% new Darnajou and Taransaud French oak barrels for 18 months. Deep garnet-purple in color, it sings of stewed blueberries, plum preserves, Chinese five spice and fragrant earth, giving way to hints of beef drippings, iron ore, espresso, tobacco leaf and dried roses. Medium-bodied, it has a firm, chewy texture and loads of bright, lively freshness lifting the densely packed berry preserves layers, finishing very long and very spicy. This is certainly a singular style—somewhat atypical for the 2018 vintage, but nonetheless compelling."