Retail $22. Under cork. 100% Estate Cabernet Franc. !5 months in barrel, 30% new French. Over the past few years, perhaps, I have come to appreciate when a Cabernet Franc smells like, well, a Cabernet Franc. While so many are trying to eliminate the pyrazine (green pepper) aroma in this fabulous variety from the Loire Valley (yes, I know it figures prominently in Bordeaux as well, but I like the Loire so much better). While it is not overwhelming (in fact there is only a trace), it shows that the winemaking team is more interested in "ripe fruit" than "overripe." Dark berry fruit, plum, cassis, pepper (both black *and* green), a touch of vanilla, and a hint of spice. Fantastic. The palate is initially a bit shy, but it sure wakes up on the mid-palate with a healthy wave of fruit, spice, and even some soft but noticeable tannins. Quite lovely.
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6/5/2021 - The Drunken Cyclist Likes this wine: 92 Points
Retail $22. Under cork. 100% Estate Cabernet Franc. !5 months in barrel, 30% new French. Over the past few years, perhaps, I have come to appreciate when a Cabernet Franc smells like, well, a Cabernet Franc. While so many are trying to eliminate the pyrazine (green pepper) aroma in this fabulous variety from the Loire Valley (yes, I know it figures prominently in Bordeaux as well, but I like the Loire so much better). While it is not overwhelming (in fact there is only a trace), it shows that the winemaking team is more interested in "ripe fruit" than "overripe." Dark berry fruit, plum, cassis, pepper (both black *and* green), a touch of vanilla, and a hint of spice. Fantastic. The palate is initially a bit shy, but it sure wakes up on the mid-palate with a healthy wave of fruit, spice, and even some soft but noticeable tannins. Quite lovely.
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3/18/2021 - arthurwillson Likes this wine: 90 Points
Delicious with St Patrick day dinner and with Guinness chocolate ganache cake. Nose of mint and spices
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1/29/2021 - Gabe21 Does not like this wine: 83 Points
Nothing special. Thick. Reverse wine snob special of: Pedroncelli Mixed Reds 6 bottles. $12.49 a bottle
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