Quady North, Rogue Valley (Southern Oregon) “La Battalla” 2021 ($23)

Herb Quady, whose family owns Quady Winery (known for Port wines in California) worked several harvests in the Rogue Valley before founding Quady North in 2006. He focused on Rhône varieties early on and has recently branched out to lead the battle in favor of Cabernet Franc over the “other Cabernet.” This “La Battalla” bottling from 2021 is a blend of Cab Franc with 16% Malbec. Co-mingled at the crusher and fermented by native yeasts, the wine is surprisingly round and smooth. With airing, the bouquet shows some red pepper and ripe blackberry notes along with an earthy streak. Round and nicely textured, it delivers black fruit flavors backed up by soft tannins. Enjoy it now or over the next few years. It offers quite good value.
91 Norm Roby