ORIGIN: From three plantings of Cabernet Franc clones in our estate vineyards situated in the Stags Leap District, Oakville and Rutherford appellations, we showcase the Cabernet Franc varietal in this subtle and complex blend.
VINEYARD: Since the early 1990s, we have conducted extensive clonal studies in various appellations for Cabernet Franc. Our vines are vertically trained and densely planted. The stress of this dense planting in well-drained areas results in smaller berries and more fruit intensity.
WINEMAKING: The fruit was hand-harvested over the third week of October, cluster sorted, berry sorted and cold soaked prior to fermentation. The wine macerated on skins for 23 days and was then transferred to new and one vintage old French oak barrels. This wine was aged for 16 months before being bottled without fining in May, 2009.
TASTING NOTES: The 2006 Cabernet Franc has a buoyant, complex nose bursting with youthful aromas of sweet fresh and dried red cherry, cranberry and black currant with subtle notes of cocoa powder and black olive. Chewy, rounded tannins lend support and body to the flavors of red and black berries, vanilla, black tea and brown spice found on the palate. It shows a fine balance over the extended finish of ripe fruit, cigar box and woody spice. This wine may be enjoyed now or cellared for 3 to 6 years.
This wine is only available through Pine Ridge Vineyards.
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