Napa Valley, California, United StatesWith grapes from Oakville, Rutherford, and Oak Knoll District AVA's, the 2015 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon is joined by 10% merlot, 6% petit verdot, and 3% malbec. Each vineyard block is vinified separately before agin in French oak for 20 months prior to blending. Rich and ripe black fruit is heavily seasoned with roasted espresso and toasty wood, woven with anise, dried oregano, and tobacco. Tannins are plump though pasty, supporting the fruit to a gently warming, bitter-edged finish. Well integrated, and polished, this very big, very made wine is held to a welcome 13.5 degrees.Tasted: 05 September 2019Tasted by: Prices:
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThe Franciscan wines have always been good value, and now they come with some polish too, shedding the big fat Napa image for something a little fresher and more savoury that draws you into the wine. It’s a touch rustic with meaty, black olive, cassis and tobacco notes but all in all, it delivers for the price and its Napa Valley moniker. Serve this with grilled meat to round off the lightly grippy tannins yet to be shed. A beautiful vintage and one that will repay with extended cellaring.Tasted: 25 March 2019Tasted by: Prices:
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