Community Tasting Note
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thelinebreak wrote: 89 points
December 16, 2011 - This is a blend. According to Franciscan website it is:
-Cabernet Sauvignon 86%
-Merlot 12%
-Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot, and Malbect 2%
(I’m not sure why they spelled “Malbec” with a “t” at the end, but they did.) To download some more information, go here http://www.franciscan.com/flash/docs/06FranCab.pdf to read their PDF about the wine. While you are reading that, I’ll do the tasting.
The PDF says the color of this cab is Ruby red. I’ll agree. I’ll also point out how the meniscus is purple, like the purple you see on the horizon at sunset.
On the nose I first get plum, dark cherry, and vanilla. Then I get some mushrooms and toast. I can barely smell the cab franc, which always stands out to me.
Hm. All those grapes in the two percent are undermining this wine. The Merlot, however, is saving it. It’s like a battle between the juicy Merlot and the dark two percent, and the Cab is on the sidelines not sure which side to join.
As for tasting notes, I get pepper and mushrooms. It finishes with cassis, like the PDF says. It’s also dry on the finish. The more I sip, the drier it gets, but, also, the more some cherries come out. Juicy cherries. I think the Merlot is winning the battle. You know there is also some cola in there somewhere, too. Again, the more I sip the more chewy it gets, and the dryness sticks to the roof of the mouth.
This is such an interesting wine. It doesn’t know what it wants to do. It’s erratic except that it gets better with each sip. This would be good with some Chinese food. Something with pork. Like a pork in a plum sauce. Mmmmmmm. And fried rice. Or pork in a barbeque sauce.
I like this but not for the price. There are so many good cabs out there for less. I don’t know how anyone gave this 94 points, let alone over 90. I’d say like 89 or 88. I’d rather drink the Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 for $8. Half the price and better. Don’t underestimate that Columbia Crest. I think I might be having an affair with that wine. You wouldn’t want to be seen with it in “good” company, but, man, it can show you a good time.
For a full review, go here: http://thelinebreak.wordpress.com/2011/12/16/in-pursuit-of-juiciest-wine-day-104-franciscan-estate-cabernet-sauvignon-2008/3,797 views