L@@K what we found Operatives… had to read the label a few times to register that this wine actually exists! Barely. They make SO LITTLE of these “extras” from the To Kalon Reserve Cabernet program. That’s like a to-go box from a dinner at the French Laundry! While we just gave away the 2016 Reserve itself for under $100, this pure Cabernet Franc is a jaw-dropping value, unheard of for a winery direct Mondavi cherry such as this.

Black as Batman’s cape, with a deep midnight navy purple glimmer on the narrow rim. A glorious nose, with an unmistakably floral violet character with chocolate and blueberry overtones. Bold black cherries, blackcurrant, and lush acidity meld seamlessly once sipped, with sexy oak spices lingering within. Turkish coffee and cardamom expand the extracted, rich and tremendously long finale. Light up the grill or the broiler for grilled sausages, bacon-wrapped prawns and veggies.

Let’s be honest. If Robert Mondavi did not spearhead California’s quality wine revolution back in ‘66, we would not be where we are today. In the 21st century, Mondavi remains a beacon, a true icon that carries the legacy with consistency, and no other vineyard of theirs speaks for this more than To Kalon, a landmark that remains one of Napa Valley’s most storied and mythical. No other site in California can claim to have been as famous for as long as To Kalon, whose wines’ superlative quality was recognized nationwide over 150 years ago.

Here’s what the wine press has to say:

93 Points – Antonio Galloni’s Vinous - “A new wine in this range, the 2016 Cabernet Franc emerges from three blocks within To Kalon: V, Monastery North and Monastery South. Aromatic, sensual and super-expressive, the 2016 has a lot going on. Cedar, dried flowers, espresso, dried cherry and menthol all grace this compelling, promising wine that shows terrific energy and plenty of persistence. Drink 2022-2031.”

93 Points – Wine Enthusiast - “Dusty gravel and crushed rock earthiness make for a heady, memorable experience in this varietal wine, a standout from the producer. Dried herb, currant and cassis mingle around a soft well-integrated texture of lengthy tannins and classic oak, the body full and fleshy.”