Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
Grapes for the 2017 Cabernet Franc Ascona Vineyards come from an elevation of 2,400 feet. It was made using 30% whole cluster and aged ten months in concrete eggs (two-thirds) and French oak (one-third). It's medium to deep ruby-purple with a very pretty nose of violet, bergamot and potpourri with warm redcurrants, black cherries, dried savory herbs, baker’s chocolate and earth—a ripe and perfumed version of the grape. It's medium to full-bodied, silky and concentrated with a firm, chalky frame and good freshness, finishing long.
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Wilfred Wong of Wine.com
COMMENTARY: The 2017 Leo Steen Cabernet Franc is an expressive wine. TASTING NOTES: This wine is focused and true-to-type. Its aromas and flavors of black fruit, anise, and dried herbs should pair well with dry-rubbed, grilled baby back ribs. (Tasted: August 2, 2019, San Francisco, CA)
Cabernet Franc, a proud parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, is the subtler and more delicate of the Cabernets. Today Cabernet Franc produces outstanding single varietal wines across the wine-producing world. Somm Secret—One of California's best-kept secrets is the Happy Canyon appellation of Santa Barbara. Here Cabernet Franc shines as a single varietal wine or in blends, expressing sumptuous fruit, savory aromas and polished tannins.
A rugged and topographically diverse cool-climate appellation with a rich history, the Santa Cruz Mountains AVA stretches from Half Moon Bay, just south of San Francisco, to the northern border of Monterey County. Elevations range from 800 feet to upwards of 3,000 and microclimates vary substantially depending on which side of the mountains the vineyards lie; cool ocean winds and fog play an important role here. This can be a challenging region in which to grow grapes, but it is well worth the effort. Santa Cruz Mountains wines are noted for balanced acidity levels, often showing great aging potential. Wine has been made here since the 1800s, most notably from the legendary Ridge Vineyards, whose Monte Bello vineyard garners international admiration.
Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon are the stars of this region, while Merlot and Zinfandel also perform quite well. Organic and sustainable vineyard practices are becoming increasingly common.