Barrage Cellars, Yakima Valley (Washington) Cabernet Franc 2016

 Owner, winemaker Kevin Cornell combined fruit from two established vineyards in Yakima, Red Willow and Boushey, to create this remarkable Cabernet Franc.  Making wines since 2006, Barrage sells most of its tiny output through its successful tasting room in the Woodinville Wine Warehouse District.  Cabernet Franc is usually blended to tone down its potentially leafy character, but here we have one that is 100% Cab Franc and is impeccable. Both its aromas and flavors deliver black fruit, with anise, a touch of dill and an earthy side.  On the palate it is big and plush with just a hint of spiced herbs to add a layered complexity to the black cherry, cranberry fruit.  With light, refined tannins, it is seamless and ready now, but will likely continue to please over the next several years.