Many aficionados, myself included, think that Cabernet Franc doesn’t get the attention it should in California, where it can be absolutely lovely. Market forces have told us that Cabernet Sauvignon is king, but we’d do well to remember that it’s thought to be the offspring of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc and to give big daddy his due credit. Here, you have to go to the back of the bottle to find him in full charge of this wine. Going to the glass will show you exactly what I’m talking about. Lively blackberry and back cherry fruit take full advantage of varietal acidity, with subtle dried herbs and fall spice joining the fruit and finishing in lingering fashion. There’s plenty of age-worthy structure here, but it doesn’t stand in the way of current enjoyment. Wonderful wine! Contains 82% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon.
Blackbird Vineyards, Napa Valley (California) 2016
By Rich Cook