Cabernet Franc
When we first decided to plant vines, we had our soil & climate analyzed to find the perfect grape variety for our vineyard. As it turned out, the unique combination of rocky soils & bay-influenced weather is ideal for the closely related Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc varieties, both of which are well known for their contribution to the classic blends of Bordeaux. And while we could plant other varieties, why bother? It would only take away vineyard space from the Cabernet and the results just wouldn't be as good.
Our Cabernet Franc is planted in the northernmost corner of our vineyard in the highest elevation & poorest soils. From that adversity comes a small yield of exceptional grapes, proving time & time again that character develops from challenges.
2018 LIVERMORE VALLEY CABERNET FRANC
750 ml
14.4% Alcohol by Vol
While we have long-made single-variety Cabernet Franc from our estate grapes, we don’t have very many & can’t produce more than a few barrels a year. For the past few years, we’ve been looking for additional sources of Cabernet Franc grapes. This is our 2nd vintage from this Livermore vineyard. It spent just over 2 years in oak & produced 75 cases.
This wine is a textbook Cabernet Franc with rich aromas of dried strawberry, cocoa, fresh blueberry, & a little savory roasted bell pepper mixed in. It has a silky feel now, and, if it is anything like our estate Cabernet Francs (we think it is!), it will continue to evolve for many years with a slowly lengthening of a soft, smoky finish.
Enjoy this wine with grilled salmon, olives, or smoked ham. Rosemary-centric roast pork emphasizes the earthiness in the wine & contrasts the strawberry nose, or it makes a simple & fun pairing with a nutty Asiago or Manchego. It’s also strangely delicious with scrambled eggs for those days when you don’t want to cook more than that.
2017 ESTATE CABERNET FRANC
Club Only
750 ml
12.9% Alcohol by Vol
Our vines that produce our Estate Cabernet Franc were planted in the northernmost block of this hilltop vineyard at the highest elevation & in poor soils. Yet, from this adversity comes a small crop of exceptional grapes, full of character.
Although sometimes used as a blending grape to soften other varietals, we believe our Cabernet Franc stands alone, exhibiting its signature silky texture. Notes of molasses and baked strawberries protrude this deliciously-complex wine which has a wonderfully long finish.
Anything grilled with a good char matches the smoky notes of this wine & contrasts with the bright fruitiness well. Tri-tip or Portobello fajitas are one of our favorite pairings, with roasted green bell peppers & onions to bring out the perfect sweet/savory balance in this wine.