Cabernet Franc

	Varietals:	88% Cabernet Franc 12% Cabernet Sauvignon
	Vineyard:	Estate Vineyards
	Appellation:	Sonoma County
	Sub Appellation:	Dry Creek
	Fermentation:	Stainless Steel
	Wood:	American Oak
	Aging:	22 Months Oak Aging

WINEMAKER NOTES: A deep violet-crimson in the glass, black cherry dominates the nose with more subtle aromas of dusty cocoa, black pepper and violets. This is a full flavored wine, with black raspberry, cherry, black pepper, and dark chocolate flavors mingling on a rich, balanced palate. Well-integrated, smooth tannins and a touch of acidity make this a wine of unusual character and balance. 632 cases Produced

ACCOLADES:

	94 Points American Winery.com
	Gold Medal Winner, Long Beach Grande Cru Competition 2007
	Silver 2007 LA International Wine and Spirits competition
	Gold Medal Winner San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition

CABERNET FRANC GRAPES: Although similar in structure and flavor to Cabernet Sauvignon, this red wine grape is not quite as full-bodied and has fewer tannins and less acid. It is, however, more aromatic and herbaceous. Unlike Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc grows in cooler climates and ripens early. Therefore, it can be particularly important if weather conditions create a less-than-perfect Cabernet Sauvignon crop. Under such circumstances, the French have found that the addition of Cabernet Franc might salvage the vintage. In Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc is most often blended with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon; it's usually not the dominant grape in these blends. The most noteworthy examples of French wines made primarily from Cabernet Franc grapes are those from Château cheval blanc, whose vineyards are planted with about 66 percent Cabernet Franc and 33 percent Merlot. In the United States, Cabernet Franc has not been widely planted, mainly because the weather in California yields consistently higher-quality Cabernet Sauvignon grapes than in France. Only recently has its popularity grown as a flavor enhancer for wines based on Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Franc is also called Bordo, Bouchet, Brenton, Carmenet, and Trouchet Noir. © Copyright Barron's Educational Services, Inc. 1995 based on THE WINE LOVER'S COMPANION, by Ron Herbst and Sharon Tyler Herbst.

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