Cabernet Franc & Merlot Napa Valley 2017

About This Wine
On the nose: Beautiful explosion of lilacs, cranberries, redcurrants, ferns, black licorice
On the palate: Velvety but fresh entrance evolving on a lavender, fresh-fruit midpalate lingering on fine tannins with touches of macerated dark cherry, elderberry, peach
Wine Profile
Blend: 52% Merlot, 48% Cabernet Franc
Fermentation: 50% barrel fermented, 50% stainless steel tank fermented
Aging: 18 months in French oak; 60% new, 40% 1-year-old barrels
Vintage Notes
2017 started out with record precipitation providing vines with sufficient water tables to safely get them through several heat spikes that began as early as June. Temperatures up to 110 degrees in early September prompted several winemakers to begin harvesting red varietals. Our winemaking team held steadfast and patiently waited until end of September before bringing in the first red varietals. Rewarded then with more moderate temperatures, the resulting wines express themselves as both full-bodied and greatly structured.