Franciscan Estate Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013: Inky dark garnet color; rich cherry-plum, some vanilla, leather on the nose; tangy dark cherry, ripe berries, restrained oak, mocha, spice on the palate;
rich mouthfeel, smooth, balanced, good acidity (3.74 pH), easy tannins; 83% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot, 3% malbec, 3% petit verdot, 1% syrah. Franciscan’s reputation is founded on its Oakville Estate vineyards (just past Rutherford on Hwy 29 in the heart of Napa) and its ability to deliver an authentic taste of Napa at the price many folks can afford; 170,000 cases of this cab are produced, so maintaining authenticity at such production levels is a notable achievement for winemaker Janet Myers. Myers eagerly asserts she is captivated by cab. “Cab is king, and I have a deep interest in this renowned variety,” Janet says. “Oakville is one of the best spots in the world for growing Bordeaux varietals, especially cabernet sauvignon, so Franciscan’s estate vineyard in Oakville is the perfect place to devote myself to exploring cabernet and its nuances. I love the body and texture of cab, how it has layers of intensity and richness, but with elegance and finesse.” You can experience a taste of this for significantly less money that some produced at wineries a short walk away from Franciscan. $28
Franciscan Estate website
Second photo: Franciscan Estate winery at Christmas
