2018 Cabernet Franc

Harry’s Hill Vineyard, Fair Play

Tasting Notes

Garnet in color with an abundance of dried herb and spice aromas, a hint of tamarind paste, and a background of cherry and raspberry red fruit. There is only the faintest hint of the bell pepper this varietal is often known for. Over the past year and a half in bottle this wine has softened beautifully, and now boasts still very full-bodied but not overpowering tannins, and a long finish perfect for pairing with hearty foods. This wine will continue to age another 5 to 8 years. 

Winemaking Notes

This bold wine is finally ready for release nearly 3 ½ years after we first harvested these grapes in Fair Play! These grape bunches had very small berries and we did not bleed off any juice for rosé wine, as we often do. During destemming we tried to keep as many whole berries as possible and we did not actively crush the grapes before fermentation, opting for the gentler processing to keep tannins down and retain fruit. Because of all the small berries and skin contact the wine still ended up quite tannic so we aged it in barrel and bottle for a little longer than usual prior to release.

Food Pairing

Cabernet Franc traditionally pairs well with a variety of cheeses and charcuterie, and this wine is no exception though we’d opt for stronger and richer cheeses here. This wine will pair perfectly with many hearty main dishes like Lentil stew, pan seared Pork Chops with garlic and herb butter, meatloaf, steak, or roasted bell peppers stuffed with herby sausage or an earthy vegetable mixture.

Aging

Aged in 50% new and 50% second use French Oak for 22 months prior to bottling.

Wine Specs

100% Cabernet Franc