2017 Celebration Cabernet Franc

In New Orleans, any occasion is a reason to party and that is what our Celebration Cabernet Franc embodies. The grapes were hand harvested in the early morning of September 21st from a south-facing slope of the Shifflett Ranch Vineyard in Oak Knoll. The grapes were then hand-sorted and fermented in small batches to ensure optimal quality. Aromas of black currant and wild herbs leap from the glass, supported by crushed rock, pencil shavings, and fresh torn mint, while the bold structure and lush tannins provide a rich and powerful mouthfeel that lingers.

Appellation: Napa Valley, Oak Knoll AVA
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Franc
Barrel Aging: 22 months, 100% new French Oak
Filtering: Unfined and unfiltered
ABV: 14.3%
Production: 54 cases

Original artwork by Sarah Stiehl www.vieuxcarregallery.com

Reviews

There is no doubt the appreciation of Cabernet Franc is at an all-time high in Napa Valley. As the trademark red grape of the famous Loire Valley region in France and the genetic father of Cabernet Sauvignon, the increased awareness in the New World can be attributed to better farming practices and updated vineyard sites that allow the traits of this noble grape to shine. A delicious example is this limited release made with ultra-premium fruit from the Shifflet Ranch Vineyard, off Darns Lane between Napa and Yountville.

Deep red with alluring aromas of ripe blue fruits, concentrated berries, licorice, wild herbs, and a hint of hickory. This full-bodied wine has a rich texture and lush flavors of fresh-picked blackberries, blueberry cobbler, ripe fig, and plum, accented with layers of allspice, fresh sage, and an admirable touch of fine oak leading to a long, dry finish. As the fanciful dancer and the background band portrayed on the label by New Orleans-based artist Sarah Stiehl suggest: There’s a lot to celebrate inside each glass of this wine!