Cabernet Franc is an important component of blends, softening and rounding out the more angular Cabernet Sauvignon, providing intriguing aromas of raspberries, chocolate, lavender, and anise. Its performance on the rocky Mayacamas Mountain slopes of Bugay Vineyard has been so superb that we decided to bottle a small amount as 100% Cabernet Franc.

A more subtle and delicate wine with gentle fruit, tartness, and great mineral-driven earthiness. Juicy acidity, soft tannins, and a smooth mouthfeel make this wine ideal for sipping with a plate of salumi, cheese, and toasted sourdough.

Bugay Vineyards is located high in the Mayacamas Mountains of Sonoma County. The soil composition here is extremely rocky and rich in volcanic complexity. The earth has a very thin layer of weathered soil over thick layers of decomposed and solid volcanic rock, along with deposits of ash in many areas. Typically, these `Red Hill’ series soils are quite acidic. However, through some quirk of nature, our soil is remarkably close to having a perfect pH.

These lean, well-drained hillsides provide the fundamental key to the cultivation of our vines and the structure of our wines. Their elevation of approximately 1200 ft. place them above both the valley fog and the damaging spring frost. This temperate climate allows the fruit to mature slowly, evenly, and with full physiological ripeness at a lower brix than most wine grape growing locations.