2008 Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
May 13, 2011 by David
Filed under Blog, Cabernet Franc, Winemaker Notes
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
This double-clone blend of 100% Cabernet Franc is grown on our Yountville Estate. Winemaker Geoff Gorsuch comments that he utilizes vertical trellising, “which helps create optimum sunlight for even-ripening and the Estate fruit brings ripe, rich flavors to the blend giving it character & elegance.”
Flavor profile: Ripe cherry, raspberry, and blackcurrant with black licorice, white pepper, and mint.
2008 Vintage: A dynamic growing season with surprisingly low yields of flavorful berries showing great intensity of color and flavor
Drink now and through: 2014
Food Suggestions
This is a versatile wine, so enjoy it with everything from grilled swordfish, to poultry and veal to grilled Portobellos or a good steak. Colleen’s Kitchen has a few recipes matched with Cabernet Franc including her new Grilled Lamb Chops with Mustard-Herb Rub.
2007 Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
May 20, 2010 by David
Filed under Blog, Cabernet Franc, Winemaker Notes
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
New release! Not so familiar with Cabernet Franc? It’s a little softer, leaner and more elegant than its offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, which makes it easy to drink and very food friendly. 
When it’s blended with Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s often done to “bring up the nose”, which just means it smells really good. Expect lush, ripe cherry, blackberry and black plum with anise, spearmint, some mocha and toasty oak. Medium to full bodied with gentle tannins.
Cabernet Franc and food: As Colleen says, thanks to its moderate proportions and soft tannins it’s is a “slam dunk” when it comes to food pairing. Enjoy this with everything from grilled swordfish, to roast chicken, grilled Portobellos or a good steak! How about some comfort food? Try it with Colleen’s recipe for Coq au Vin with the Cabernet Franc as the “vin”! Bon appétit!
2006 Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
September 25, 2009 by David
Filed under Cabernet Franc, Winemaker Notes
Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Lush, generous flavors of ripe cherries, sweet raspberry, dried herbs and mint finish with toasty oak, spice and a hint of licorice.
Pairings: Grilled steak or lamb, slow-cooked dishes, aged cheeses.
