2017 Merryvale Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

Winemaking

We are privileged to work with some of the best Cabernet Franc fruit in the Napa Valley, from vineyards including our Profile Estate, Stanton and Silverado Premium Properties. Our goal is to make a Cabernet Franc that is on par with the best Cabernet Sauvignons made here. All of the fruit is hand harvested at night. Native fermentation in small lots follows a 5-day cold soak; we do two pumpovers a day until dry and then drain to 100% French oak barrels, 50% of which are new. This wine was bottled without fining or filtration.

Tasting Notes

Aromatically alluring, our Cabernet Franc opens with tones of licorice, coffee, toast and blackberry. On the mouth we have some dark chocolate, dark cherries and savory herbs that follow a sweet and round entry with some small grain and early tannins. The finish is soft and velvety thanks to beautiful and gentle tannins. A refined, exceptional expression of New World Cabernet Franc, that will age beautifully for 10+ years.