Cabernet Franc is a Bordeaux variety that can actually prefer a slightly more moderate climate and thus thrives in the Santa Ynez Valley. The winemaker blended in 21% Petit Verdot in this wine to add a bit of structure and to enhance the flavor profile of the wine. These two varieties together create a wine that can be seductively rich and well structured.
The fruit, tannins, and overall mouthfeel are well balanced. As it opens over time, the richness becomes more pronounced and the texture becomes more integrated and coating.
The wine was aged in French Oak barrels of which 33% was new. The balance of the barrels was 2-5-year-old barrels. This gives this wine a perfect amount of new wood flavor which integrates nicely with the flavors from the more neutral barrels, think integration, and balance.
There are aromas of plum, light herbs, and earth. The Italian Herb, Sage component that often is apparent in Cabernet Franc is seemingly less forward in this wine. This is due to more canopy management in the vineyard which allowed more sunlight into the fruiting zone along with the slightly warmer weather.
Cheers, and enjoy this wine! Â