2014 Cabernet Franc No 1

75% Cabernet Franc, 25% Merlot. The Cabernet Franc is sourced from eight small ‘backyard’ vineyards in Napa Valley’s cooler south side on mostly volcanic, clay and sandy-loam soils, while the Merlot is from the Ashes & Diamonds vineyard, a block of vines planted just over 40 years ago. All fruit was destemmed and fermented in stainless steel. Aged for 20 months in French oak, 20% new barrels. Another quite senior wine from UK importers Nekter. Transparent crimson. Certainly different from the Napa norm, even if it has not developed much on the nose yet. Sweet and light – quite charming though without Cab Franc's trademark perfume. It must be difficult to wean old timers off the blockbusters on to this. Fine tannins promise for future development. (JR)