Winemaker Mike Sinor is going experimental with his Bordeaux varieties, and we get to be the beneficiaries. Here, Merlot makes up the “other 25%,” and it serves to round out the Cabernet Franc’s peppery edge without obliterating its attractiveness. There’s a firm grip at present, but it will unwind with a little cellar time or a long decanting if you decided to go in early. An herb encrusted prime rib sounds about right.
Ancient Peaks Winery, Santa Margarita Ranch – Paso Robles (Central Coast, California) Cabernet Franc 2019
By Rich Cook