Cabernet Franc

Wild Oak Vineyard

Sonoma Valley

Tasting Notes

This robust yet approachable Bourdeaux inspired wine expresses aromas of currant, cocoa nib, and candied citrus subtly accented by hints of fresh fennel frond. The first sips introduce notes of citrus-chocolate and pomegranate teased by subtle hints of roasted espresso. The satin-like tannins maintain a complex structure, yet leave the wine with a delicate tannin filled finish of loose-leaf tobacco and spice.

Vintage Notes

The 2017 growing season started out wet with record-breaking rainfall after several dry years. A mild spring led to a timely bud break and good fruit set, followed by ideal conditions of cool mornings and warm, sunny days throughout the summer months. A few days of intense heat at the beginning of September sped up ripening throughout the region. Well-timed picks meant the majority of the fruit was in by the first week of October. Beautiful color, well-defined aromatics, and outstanding flavor are all evident in this year’s vintage.

Vineyard Notes

The Sonoma Valley, a historic wine-growing region, is ideally suited for growing high-quality wine grapes including Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Cabernet Sauvignon. We source all three varieties from our Certified Sustainable Wild Oak Estate Vineyard, located at the foot of the Mayacamas Mountains in the heart of the valley. The area’s warm summer days are tempered by cool, breezy evenings allowing the grapes to develop complex flavors while retaining acidity. The vineyard property is also the site of the Winery and Tasting Room.

Winemaker Notes

The grapes are gently de-stemmed before cold-soaking to extract optimal color and aroma. The fruit is fermented in separate lots, allowing each to be individually and distinctly crafted before being aged in French oak barrels.