Frederic Dumoulin, Valais (Switzerland) Cabernet Franc 2016

 Given the pace of climate change in this part of Europe, it may not be long until Cabernet Sauvignon can be ripened fully in the Valais, but for now, you’ll need Cab Franc to hold you over.  And this one will do very nicely indeed, as it shows all the best characteristics of the variety, with a lightly herbal aromatic profile, medium-bodied fruit with mostly blackberry and black cherry notes, and a long finish that is lengthened by very fine-grained tannins and very subtle wood.  This will quite probably improve in bottle for another couple of years… maybe more… but good luck keeping your mitts off of it if you try a bottle anytime soon.