2016 marked the fifth consecutive year of a punishing drought in Northern California; however, the Napa Valley was fortunate to receive 20+ inches of rain; most of which fell before March; making the soil conditions ideal for bud break that began second week of March. Conditions in August were perfect for ripening and moderate temperatures persisted up until harvest with only a temporary heat spike in early September. Harvest began in September under mild conditions which allowed the vineyard team to be more selective and work at a steady pace.

The 2016 Essere Franco Proprietary Red has aromas of dark chocolate, toasted oak, vanilla, dark fruits – blackberry and dark currant. The palate is meaty with concentrated black currants, blackberry preserves, and toasted nuts. A blackberry liquor that is soft and lush with a finish that never ends. The wine would complement a wide range of foods but longs for a nice grilled rib eye steak (my personal favorite – but hey… if filet mignon or New York is your thing – go for it). Cheers and enjoy! - Tom Foster, Winemaker.