Winemaker Notes
Blend: 96% Cabernet Franc, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Petite Sirah
Professional Ratings
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James Suckling
Very ripe, focused and structured, this full-bodied wine displays the classic flavors of dark cherries and bay leaves on a frame of firm, fine-grained tannins. For a powerful wine it has considerable polish and doesn't feel heavy on the palate. Singed rosemary, oak char, cocoa and black currant flavors, too. Drink now or hold.
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Wine Enthusiast
Opulent, baked plum, branded cherry, and black mission fig jam sing a song together. The rich nose is beaconing one to dive in, take a sip, and watch the show unfold. The mouthfeel is explosive with blackberry, spice, silky tannins, and a long finish. pair with grilled skirt steak.
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.
Located within the greater Clear Lake appellation, the Red Hills AVA is perhaps the hottest spot right now in Lake County for new Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards. Recognizing the potential of its volcanic and obsidian heavy soils, many respected growers are flocking to the area. Andy Beckstoffer, a leader in escalating the quality and recognition of Napa Valley, has already invested heavily in the area.