Lang & Reed, North Coast (California) Cabernet Franc 2017

 One of the few wineries in Napa Valley to specialize in 100 percent Cabernet Franc, Lang & Reed’s 2017 Cabernet Franc is all about pure fruits and herbs, including pomegranate, grilled Medjool dates, rich plum, wild strawberry, forest floor, and dried sage.  This also stays true to its varietal signature with a hint of green bell pepper.  For this 2017 bottling, they gathered grapes from Lake, Napa, and Sonoma counties.  This is a beautifully integrated and complex Cabernet Franc — marked not just by concentrated fruit but a smooth texture and freshness that will sustain it for many years to come.  If you are enjoying a bottle now, give this time to decant.