Chappellet, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Franc 2016

 This wine reminds me of the great Cheval Blanc, from the Saint-Emilion district of Bordeaux.  It offers notes of cassis and red currant, flavors I typically associate with fine Bordeaux, and a classic structure that exhibits firmness despite its richness and depth.  Though it shows well now, it would benefit from additional cellar age.  In the very small world of California Cabernet Franc (I should note it’s 76 percent Cabernet Franc, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot rounding out the blend) this is among the top two or three produced.