Grown in the northeast section of the Russian River Valley, this Cabernet Franc is located in the sub-appellation of Chalk Hill. These grapes are exposed to warmer days and cool nights on our family’s Los Amigos Ranch, just south of Healdsburg. The unique weather of this area allows our Bordeaux varietals to ripen slowly and develop rich, complex flavors.
2016 was an exceptional year for growing grapes in the Chalk Hill region of the Russian River Valley. While we were now into the 5th year of drought, we saw a return to a more normal growing season in relation to bud break, veraison and harvest. The vines and fruit matured evenly across the board, leading to a near perfect pick.
Our Cabernet Franc is aged for up to 20 months in a combination of Hungarian and American Oak. This vintage contains a small amount of Cabernet Sauvignon, also from our Los Amigos Ranch, to enhance the structure of this exquisite Cabernet Franc.
Our Cabernet Franc displays deep hues of magenta, while fragrant spices integrate evenly with red currants, vanilla and a hint of dried tobacco. Even bodied throughout, the 2016 vintage shows a complex fusion of wild berries, ripe cherry and light sage, lending itself to a smooth, lingering finish of light olive and anise. Ready to enjoy now or cellar for additional development.