1997 Cabernet Franc Napa/Sonoma
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Tasting notes
The extraordinary 1997 Cabernet Franc is impressive. A massive, mountain-styled offering (unlike other California Cabernet Francs, with the possible exception of La Jota's), it boasts an opaque purple color as well as a fabulously sweet nose of black currants, cranberry liqueur, new oak, and roasted notes. Chewy, full-bodied, and exceptionally huge, this offering should become even more complex with another 5-6 years of cellaring. It should keep for two decades. This is a tour de force, particularly for Cabernet Franc. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2020. This is a spectacular wine that must be tasted to be believed. Tel. (707) 963-4949
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
Medium ruby. Dark, fruit-driven aromas of blackberry, cocoa powder, espresso and shoe polish; real mountain-style franc. Dense and sweet in the middle palate, with bright, harmonious acids contributing to the impression of inner-mouth perfume. Finishes with substantial but rather fine tannins, a pronounced spicy oakiness and excellent persistence.