Simon Family Estate Beckstoffer Georges III Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford 2023

The Simon Family's journey began in the early 1980s when Sam and Nada Simon immigrated to the United States from Lebanon. As they settled into their new home, they discovered a newfound appreciation for wine and embarked on a passionate exploration of vineyards across the globe. However, it wasn't just the wine's taste that intrigued them; it was the stories and histories woven into each bottle. They found it remarkable that whichever winegrowing region they ventured to, every producer had a tale to tell and one that brought everyone around the table together to hear while tasting the fruits of their labor.

Driven by their insatiable curiosity and love for wine, the Simons joined the Napa Valley Reserve, where they continued their "wine education" and cemented a passion for the intricacies of crafting outstanding wines and, more so, for the genuine enjoyment of all who sit and share a bottle. During their time in Napa Valley, they encountered and befriended a kindred spirit, Maayan Koschitzky (a fellow immigrant from the Middle East). Maayan, now the Director of Winemaking for Atelier Melka, had a shared journey of determination and hard work in a new country that mirrored the Simons' experiences. Their instant connection made it a simple choice, and Maayan joined them in their next endeavor: creating a label all their own for the broader wine market. With guidance and expertise from Maayan, Sam and Nada established the Simon Family Estate to "share the beauty we have found in wine with others."

For the second time in 2023, they turned to one of Napa Valley's crown jewels: Beckstoffer Georges III Vineyard in Rutherford, a site whose history reads like required reading for any Cabernet devotee. Originally planted as early as 1895 and later purchased by Georges de Latour in 1928, this was the birthplace of Beaulieu Vineyard's legendary Rutherford Cabernets crafted by the iconic André Tchelistcheff. The wines produced here in the 1960s and 70s cemented BV's status as one of Napa's defining houses. Beckstoffer's acquisition of the vineyard in 1988 ushered in a new era, with replanting, tighter vine spacing, and modern trellising turning GIII into the meticulously farmed, world-class site we revere today.

The 100% Cabernet Sauvignon was aged for 22 months in barrel and is quintessential Napa Valley. Jeb Dunnuck notes, "cassis and blue fruits as well as smoky tobacco and spring flower-like nuances. It's full-bodied and concentrated, with a layered mouthfeel, ripe, polished, velvety tannins, and a great finish." Before enjoying now, let the wine breathe for 45 minutes or so in a decanter so it can spread its wings. For those with patience, add a few more to your cellar and tuck away for at least a decade; the Simon Family Georges III will last.