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Tastings: March 2026
02 March 2026
87PTS
Vasanti Cabernet Franc Renewal Series 2023
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom a neighbouring vineyard, this cabernet franc was harvested ripe before a stainless ferment, and 18 months rest in 50% new American and European oak. Dark earth and ripe dark blackberry is woven with earthy forest floor and tart acidity, framed with ample sticky / powdery tannins that close out the warming finish. An overworked style that is best suited to rustic stews.Prices:| BC | $37.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Fort Berens Cabernet Franc Reserve 2022
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaThe Reserve Cab Franc is off both the Lillooet estate Dry Creek and Red Rock vineyards, and includes 12% cabernet sauvignon in the mix. Post ferment, this spent an additional 8 days on skins for more colour and tannin before a 15 month rest in French barrels (61% new). Smoked stones, roasted earth, and charred barrels scent the plumped cassis and blackberry on the tart palate. Tannins are on the rustic side at this point, requiring a hearty fall / winter stew to tame.Prices:| BC | $43.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Fort Berens Cabernet Franc 2022
Lillooet, British Columbia, CanadaThe classic FB Cab Franc is sourced from their Lillooet estate Red Rock vineyard, and tips 12% cabernet sauvignon into the mix. Post ferment, this remained on skins for 9 days further for additional colour and tannin extraction before heading to French barrels (10% new) for 15 months. Earthy black cherry, blackberry, and grilled herbs are met with a tart cassis acidity, and wrapped with powdery cocoa dusted tannins that tuck this neatly into a smoked stone finish. Showing best at present with grilled root veg.Prices:| BC | $32.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Rigour & Whimsy a Love we All Dream of Reserve 2022
Osoyoos, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA Love we all Dream of 2022 was initially released with in 2023 with 4 months' aging in older puncheons and barriques. This newly launched Reserve edition saw 16 months of aging in the same vessels. The core is the exact same: cabernet franc off Osoyoos' organic Sekhon Family Vineyards was whole cluster fermented in macrobins over 4 months prior to heading to wood and aging. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Fragrant plum, wild blackberry, ink is scented with violets and iris, and seasoned with a light dusting of white peppercorn. Tannins are now absorbed into the fruit, leaving a suede texture to the stony finish. Lovely to see this with more time and development. Drinking very smartly now and a lovely lens for BC Cab Franc.Prices:Read Full Note
91PTS
Maison Smith Montpetit Reserve Cabernet Franc 2023
British Columbia, CanadaThe Reserve Cabernet Franc is a shining example of winemaker Erich Smith-Peter's style, and an intriguing bottle of wine. Texturally outstanding, with silky, dense tannins that melt away in the finish. The nose is a classic mix of capsicum, cedar, and red fruits that draw you into the glass. Dark red plums, spice and licorice round out the palate while the south Okanagan desert scrub adds a savoury component that lingers with the fruit. It is so well-balanced that you can drink it now or hold it through 2030 with no issues.Prices:| BC | $44.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Los Cerros de San Juan Cuna Piedra Cabernet Franc Single Vineyard 2023
Southern Riverside, UruguayThis single vineyard Franc opens with aromatic, medicinal, floral, bay leaf, and red currants. The palate is a spicy, cool red fruit experience that leans toward the Loire style, complete with a fresh acidity that runs through the wine. The finish is well-balanced, and the tannins are relatively light, leaving a smooth, textured finish. An interesting look at what can be done in Uruguay, even in the early days. The style suggests pork and mushroom dishes, or a favourite grilled meat.Prices:| BC | $23.99 | 750ml |
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