Varietal of the Month: Cabernet Franc

 

If Missy Elliot liked Cabernet Franc, maybe the lyrics to “Get Ur Freak On!” would have been “Get Ur Franc On!” But even without a staring role in a song, Cabernet Franc is having a moment, an ongoing moment that is. And it’s no surprise. Cabernet Franc is a great food friendly wine with medium body, moderate tannin and modest acidity. With great finesse and texture, it’s the softer side of Cabernet Sauvignon, to which Cab Franc is the parent grape.

 

Here are some capsule reviews of Cabernet Franc you may find along the Wine Road.

 

Amphora 2019 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Amphora 2019 Cabernet Franc from Dry Creek Valley is deep purple in the glass. On the nose, scents of dark plum and dried strawberry; dusty and earthy with notes of sage and black pepper. On the palate it’s juicy and smooth with flavors of mocha, raspberry and blackberry with a light minty finish. Tannins are soft and easy, like a favorite flannel shirt. Pair with a classic comfort food dish like lasagna.

 

ABV 14.0%

$58

 

 

The Meeker Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Meeker Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley is a deep, dark burgundy color in the glass. On the nose, it’s bright and showy with aromas of raspberry, dried strawberry, vanilla and plum. As it opens, lively scents of mint and sage come into play. It’s lighter in weight and mouthfeel than one might be expect given the ABV, but it’s a juicy delight with sunny acidity and taut tannins that support flavors of tart cherry, chili pepper and crushed rose petals.

 

ABV14.8%

$50

 

Mounts 2021 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Mounts 2021 Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley is full of verve and energy with aromas of cherry, dried strawberry, vanilla, chaparral (sage and cedar) and mocha. Soft and lovely on the palate, it has both lift and depth with rich flavors of sweet tobacco, Aztec Chocolate, red plum, strawberry. Wonderful structure that will develop with age, but it’s simply delightful now.

 

ABV 14.8%

$55

 

Pedroncelli 2021 East Side Vineyard, Cabernet Franc, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Pedroncelli 2021 Cabernet Franc is a small lot wine, hand harvested from the sustainably farmed East Side vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. On the nose, licorice dried strawberry, raspberry jam and garrigue, a Mediterranean herb blend that includes rosemary, thyme, basil, sage, fennel, and mint. On the palate it’s plump with flavors of dark plum, dried strawberry, pink and black peppercorn, and licorice. Deep and savory with a bright spicy finish. A cozy wine for a cozy fireside evening.

 

ABV 14.9%

$36

 

 

Rockpile Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Franc Feather Ridge, Rockpile (DCV)

 

The Rockpile Vineyard 2020 Cabernet Franc, Feather Ridge in Dry Creek Valley, is supple and alive with flavor. On the nose, a beguiling scent of dried strawberry, sweet tobacco, dusty gravel and a trace of bell pepper. On the palate, strawberry, chaparral, jalapeño, and red pepper flake. The fine smooth tannins carry notes of red currant and tart cherry through to a bright finish.

 

ABV 14.5%

$80

 

Robert Young 2021 Cabernet Franc, Alexander Valley

 

The Robert Young 2021 Cabernet Franc, Alexander Valley, is a gorgeous deep garnet color in the glass. On the nose, it’s aromatic with scents of raspberry, strawberry, sweet briar, cocoa, and a faint note of fennel. On the palate, it opens with juicy blackberry, followed by notes of paprika, thyme, vanilla and mocha on the long finish. Lovely overall structure with medium acidity and soft knitted tannins make this an excellent choice for savory meat or pasta dishes.

 

ABV 14.4%

$69

Style of the Month: Rosé

 

It’s that time of year again. Time for the new releases of Rosé—the summer favorite and year round delight. Light and lively, with flavors of strawberry, watermelon, and spice—Rosé is the crisp and refreshing choice for picnics and barbecues but also easy to pair with a variety of meal options. Rosé color can range from deep golden salmon to translucent onionskin to barely there pale pink. Fill you glass and get ready for another season of #RoseAllDay.

 

Here are some capsule reviews of Rosé wines you may find along the Wine Road.

 

 

Capo Creek 2023 Rosé of Grenache, North Coast

 

The Capo Creek 2023 Rosé of Grenache, North Coast is composed of 83% Grenache and 17% Zinfandel. It has a light salmon color with a nose of strawberry, cherry, Santa Rosa plum and watermelon. On the palate it’s soft as cotton candy, yet bold with spicy flavors of strawberry, ripe raspberry, cherry and pomegranate. Nice structure overall with a long spicy finish. Pair with Ginger Lime Panna Cotta.

 

ABV 14.1%

$ 28

 

Jeff Cohn Cellars Pure Pink 2023 Rosé of Syrah Rockpile Vineyard, DCV

 

The Jeff Cohn Cellars Pure Pink 2023 Rosé of Syrah is from the Rockpile Vineyard in Dry Creek Valley. The color is a deep salmon with a golden glow at the edges. On the nose, scents of watermelon and pink peppercorn. On the palate, a medley of juicy mango, blackberries, raspberry, strawberry and grounding note of clove on the long bright finish. Pair with Parmesan and Onion tart.

 

AVB 13.2%

$ 35

 

Pedroncelli 2023 Dry Creek Valley Rosé of Zinfandel, Bushnell Vineyard

 

The Pedroncelli 2023, Dry Creek Valley, Rosé of Zinfandel from Bushnell Vineyard is a pretty copper rose gold in color. On the nose, notes of watermelon, candied strawberry, citron, grapefruit and a touch of ginger spice. On the palate it’s lively and spirited with refreshing flavors of bright strawberry, watermelon, pink grapefruit pith, and honeydew. Pair with Fried Green Tomatoes drizzled with sweet chili sauce.

 

ABV 13.9%

$22

 

Quivira Vineyards 2023 Wine Creek Ranch Rosé DCV

 

The Quivira Vineyards 2023 Wine Creek Ranch Rosé from Dry Creek Valley is a

blend of 53% Grenache, 22% Petit Sirah, 14% Counoise, 7% Mourvedre, and 4% Primitivo. It has a soft pale pink color with a rosy gold rim like a sunrise. On the nose, it’s a summery confection of strawberry, watermelon, cherry and bubble gum.  On the palate, steely acidity with flavors of raspberry, strawberry, candied ginger and thyme. On the finish, a soft creaminess emerges with a distinct note of passion fruit. Pair with French radishes with herb butter and salt for dipping.

 

ABV 13.5%

$32

 

Saini Vineyards 2023 Valentina Marie Rosé of Grenache DCV

 

The Saini Vineyards 2023 Valentina Marie Rosé of Grenache, Dry Creek Valley is a pale rose gold parchment color. On the nose, it’s aromatic with scents of spicy carnation, watermelon, cherry and pomegranate. On the palate it sings with flavors of lime, hibiscus, tomato leaf, ginger and a note of creamy passion fruit on the long fine finish. Pair with Mozzarella, Tomato, and Basil salad.

 

ABV 12.5%

$27

 

Robert Young Rachel’s Rosé 2022, Alexander Valley

 

The Robert Young Rachael’s Rosé 2022 Alexander Valley, is the first wine made by Rachael Taylor, a 6^th generation scion of the Young Family, in honor of her great-great-great-grandmother Rachael Young. The color is a soft ginger pink with a gold tinge at the rim. On the nose, rose petals, strawberry, parchment, dried thyme and lavender linen. The palate is taut and tart with notes of sweet strawberry, orange marmalade, limeade, and rhubarb. Pair with grilled summer squash with a tomato-goat cheese pesto. 

 

ABV 13.2%

$37

Wines of the Month: Winter Whites - Riesling and Gewurztraminer

 

This month we offer reviews of two cool climate varietals—Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Winter is a great time to try these aromatic white wines and add a bit of tropical sparkle to your day with the crisp fresh flavors of these delicious food friendly wines. Check out the Winter Whites below that you may find along the Wine Road.

 

CAST Riesling 2022 Sonoma Coast

The CAST 2022 Riesling from Sonoma Coast has a light white floral nose of honeysuckle and jasmine. On the palate it leads with bright citrus notes of Meyer lemon and pink grapefruit. Secondary notes of apricot and ginger meld with a zesty hit of orange peel that boosts the acidity. The finish is long with soft notes of chalk, beeswax and limestone. Bright and focused it’s the first Riesling vintage from CAST and one to be savored. Enjoy with spicy Shrimp Pad Thai.

ABV 11.8%
$45

 

Dutcher Crossing 2021 Riesling Wine Makers Circle Russian River Valley

As I tasted the Dutcher Crossing 2021 Riesling from Russian River Valley, I was struck by its magical qualities. Well, not really magical, more like irresistible. So charming and enchanting a Riesling, I fell under its spell. On the nose, aromas of honeysuckle, beeswax and jasmine, with a slight hint of petrol, a characteristic note in Riesling. On the palate, flavors both tart and sweet—a crisp tropical explosion of juicy pineapple, guava, mango, green apple and candied ginger. The long finish is tart with a wonderful creamy coconut note. Pair this magical elixir with slow-roasted pork smothered in a spicy chili crisp-apricot-pomegranate glaze.

ABV 12.5%
$40

 

Furthermore Wines 2021 Riesling Sonoma Coast

The Furthermore Wines 2021 Riesling has all the earmarks of a classic. On the nose it’s aromatic and refined with scents both floral and honeyed including notes of beeswax, jasmine, orange blossom, and a touch of wet slate and petrol. On the palate it’s zesty and zippy with lime and juicy grapefruit at the forefront along with notes of pineapple, ginger and beeswax. Tart acidity and minerality on the finish makes it great for pairing with a spicy dish such as Thai red curry.

ABV 12.6%
$35

 

Williamson Wines 2021 Frisky Riesling, Lake County

The Williamson Wines 2021 Riesling from Lake County has the moniker “Frisky” for a reason. It’s quite the character exuding a bright juicy personality brimming over with flavor and brilliant acidity. On the nose, fresh citrusy aromatics with initial notes of honeysuckle, pineapple, lilac and ginger. It’s steely and precise with tart and juicy flavors of ripe peach, crisp green apple, pear, lemongrass and a grounding mineral note of limestone. A splendid balance of texture and flavor this is a Riesling that needs no pairing to enjoy, but will certainly shine with Spicy Crab sushi rolls.

ABV 13.5%
$39

  

Harvest Moon 2021 Sparkling Gewurztraminer, Russian River Valley

The Harvest Moon 2021 Sparkling Gewurztraminer from Russian River Valley is a focused confluence of flavor and body. First of all how often do you find a Sparkling Gewurztraminer? Not that often and when it’s made like this one, best grab a bottle or two. On the nose warm scents of brioche, marzipan, rose petals and spicy ginger. On the palate, it walks a tightrope between creamy and steely body weight with delicious flavors of lychee, grapefruit, quince and orange peel. You’ll find a fine bubble stream and great balance in this lean but luscious sparkler. I had one glass, and before I could have another my husband had finished the bottle. Pair with someone who knows how to share!

ABV 12.5%
$48

 

Russian River Vineyards 2022 Gewurztraminer Sonoma Valley

The Russian River Vineyards 2022 Gewurztraminer from Sonoma Valley smells like a tropical rain with soft aromatics of peach, lychee, spicy carnation, Turkish delight (rose water) and honeysuckle. On the palate it exhibits great texture with bracing acidity and lush flavors of ripe peach, grapefruit, ginger, lychee and coconut. On the finish, a lingering note of juniper and lime with a hint of bergamot. It’s juicy yet steely; a fine balance of sweet and tart. Pair with spring rolls and Hoisin dipping sauce.

ABV 14%
$35

Varietal of the Month: Viognier

 

Viognier, originally from the Northern Rhone Valley in France, is a full-bodied white wine with a rich, unctuous texture. Intensely aromatic, Viognier has good acidity, tannin structure, and relatively high alcohol. Viognier from cool climates tend towards bright citrus notes, while warm climate wines exhibit deeper floral notes and ripe stone fruit flavors. Pronounced [Vee-ohn-yay]

 

 

Capo Creek 2022 Estate Viognier, Dry Creek Valley

 

The Capo Creek Estate Viognier is aromatic and fresh with aromas of honeysuckle, peach, apricot and orange blossom with a grounding note of toasted almond. On the palate it’s deep and rich with rippling acidity and flavors of lime, white peach and ripe mango. The long finish rings with notes of orange peel and crushed rose petals. Satisfying and textural, pair with a spicy Moroccan lamb curry

 

ABV 13.5%

$45

Carol Shelton Wild Thing Viognier 2022 Central Coast

 

The label on Carole Shelton’s 2022 Wild Thing Viognier is a major hint to the delights held within. Bursting with fresh floral aromatics, it fills the glass with scents of white flowers, honeydew, orange zest and a touch of marzipan. On the palate it’s taut and crisp with juicy notes of apple, creamy white peach and lime zest. Pair with spicy empanadas.

 

ABV 13.7%

$24

 

Francis Coppola Reserve 2022 Viognier Catie’s Corner, Russian River Valley

 

The Francis Coppola Reserve 2022 Viognier from Catie’s Corner is part of a portfolio of wines that showcase distinctive sites in Sonoma County and Catie’s Corner vineyard is renowned for a select few varietals including Viognier. On the nose, a bouquet of soft white floral scents with orange blossom, honeysuckle, peach, and lime zest. On the palate lively acidity balances the plush favors of fleshy white peach, mango, and ripe apricot. Long soft finish with a light note of honey-almond. Pair with Pad Thai or Chicken Satay with spicy peanut sauce.

 

ABV 14.5%

$40

 

J. Rickards 2022 Viognier Il Sogno Ranch, Dry Creek Valley

 

The J. Rickards 2022 Viognier from Il Sogno Ranch, Dry Creek Valley opens with a tropical mélange of aromatics featuring mango, lemongrass, lime, coconut and spicy ginger. On the palate, it’s lean and bright with a lithe, supple texture and citrus notes of lime, and ginger, plus a touch of orange creamsicle. The long finish is clean and taut with a balance of apricot, green apple and a sunny note of orange peel. Pair with grilled chicken topped with mango chutney.

 

ABV 14.3%

$32

 

Russian River Vineyards 2022 Viognier Catie’s Corner, Russian River Valley

 

Great wines hail from great vineyards and Catie’s Corner in Russian River Valley is one of the most storied and lauded for Viognier. The Russian River Vineyards 2022 Viognier from Catie’s Corner in Russian River Valley is a rush for the senses. The nose is chock full of fresh aromatics with scents of honeysuckle, peach, orange blossom and a touch of thyme. On the palate it’s lively and balanced with fleshy white peach, honeydew, crisp green apple and soft apricot. Clean lean finish makes it a natural to pair with spicy tuna sushi rolls.

 

AVB 13.2%

$52

 

Robert Young Viognier 2021 Alexander Valley

 

The Robert Young 2021 Viognier from Alexander Valley is complex and compelling with an ultra soft nose and equally soft palate— it’s like a whisper from the vines to your senses. On the nose a whiff of honeysuckle, and the subtle sweet scent of apple blossom, and sun warmed peach. On the palate it’s rich and textured with flavors of peach, mango, guava, and honeydew coupled with an ever so soft patter of light tannins on the finish like tiny kitten paw prints. Balanced and bright with a lovely soupçon of sweetness, it’s worthy of drinking all on it’s own or pair with a simple charcuterie board of salamis and creamy cheeses.

 

ABV 14.1%

$40

Varietal of the Month: Sangiovese

 

Sangiovese derives its name from the Latin  —Sanguis Jovis— meaning “the blood of Jove”. A mainstay of Italy, it’s a medium-bodied dry red wine with a range of flavors that include red cherry, black plum, sun-dried tomato, cigar box, black tea, smoke, anise, and thyme; great acidity and a nice level of spiciness typify it. Medium to high tannin make it a versatile wine, suitable for pairing with all things tomato based, especially pizza; but also great with hard cheeses and rich savory roasted meats, or even pork chops. 

 

Here are capsule reviews of Sangiovese wines you may find along the Wine Road.

 

 

ACORN 2019 Sangiovese, Russian River Valley

The ACORN 2019 Sangiovese from Alegría Vineyards in Russian River Valley is composed of 98% Sangiovese, 1% Canaiolo Nero and 1% Mammolo Toscano. I don’t know how those small amounts of amounts of Canaiolo Nero and Mammolo Toscano figure in the equation, but the result is nothing short of magical. The wine is rich and juicy with a delicate dusty rose on the nose. It’s full of bright tart cherry and cranberry with grounding notes of thyme, coffee and mocha. It’s savory and supple with soft fine-grained sandy tannins. Nice acidity with a long juicy, spicy finish with a hint of tomato leaf and caper. It literally makes my mouth happy to drink it. Pair with Pasta alla Norma or eggplant parmagiana.

 

ABV 14.1%

$45

 

Colagrossi 2018 Sangiovese, Mendocino County

The 2018 Colagrossi Sangiovese from Mendocino County is a meaty delight that hits all the right notes in terms of fruit, acidity and tannin. On the nose, notes of clove, aniseed, vanilla and cherry cola. On the palate it opens with bright red fruit, and tart cherry then settles with savory earthy notes of tobacco and balsamic. Great acidity and balanced sandy tannins carry the fruit flavors to a soft pleasing finish. Pizza is a natural choice for this wine or pair with sausage calzone or a simple charcuterie. 

 

ABV 14.6%

$38

   

Peterson 2018 Sangiovese, Dry Creek Valley 

The Peterson 2018 Sangiovese from Dry Creek Valley is shimmering earthy ode to the Tuscan varietal. On the nose, notes of sandalwood, amber, sweet tobacco and black cherry. On the palate it opens with tart cranberry and red currant followed by deep savory notes of thyme, sage and dried tomato. Marvelous balance of acidity and fine knit tannins is sure to activate the pleasure center of your brain. Spicy and lithe, pair with lasagna and the poetry of Dante.

 

ABV 14.6%

$30

 

Trentadue 2021 Shoestring Sangiovese, Alexander Valley

 

The 2021 Trentadue Shoestring Sangiovese from Alexander Valley has the earmarks of classic Chianti, with medium body, sandy tannins and food-friendly acidity. On the nose, sandalwood and dusty rose petals with a hint of black pepper and marjoram.  The palate is full and bright with flavors of maraschino cherry, dried strawberry and red currant and cassis. Still young this wine will develop nicely over the next several years, but it’s absolutely tasty and enjoyable right now. Pair with tomato tart or pasta Bolognese.

 

ABV 14.5%

$38

 

Style of the Month: Port & Late Harvest

Port style and Late Harvest wines have sweeter profiles than other wines. Port, is traditionally made with Portuguese grape varieties such as Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, and Tinta Roriz. Alcohol, usually grape brandy, is added during fermentation, which fortifies the wine. Late harvest wines are made from grapes high in brix/sugar content that are left to hang on the vines and harvested late for concentrated flavor. Both styles have higher alcohol levels but are exceedingly delicious and can also be kept longer after opening than traditional wines. 

Here are capsule reviews of Port style and Late Harvest wines you may find along the Wine Road.

Cast 2017 Late Zinfandel Fortified

The whimsical logo on the bottle of the CAST 2017 Late Zinfandel is a hint to the magical delights within. Made with Watson Old Vine Zinfandel grapes and blended with 191 proof distilled spirits, the Late is a marvel of fortified fruity finesse. On the nose toffee, vanilla coffee bean, black plum and spicy black carnation. The palate is full and bright with flavors of baking spice, dried cherry, praline, brandied pear and marzipan. Pair with an array of aged cheese’s that will balance and enhance the rich flavors of the wine.  

ABV 18%

Dutton Estate 2017 Sweet Sisters Late Harvest Syrah, Russian River Valley

The Dutton Estate 2017 Sweet Sisters Late Harvest Syrah is a sumptuous mélange of scents and flavors. On the nose, deep aromas of caramel, blackberry, black cherry, mocha and clove. On the palate, the Syrah shines bright with flavors of mint, dark chocolate, eucalyptus, rum raisin, and raspberry. It’s like a liquid version of the Thin Mint! Velvety, yet light, this wine shows how subtlety and balance is the key to late harvest richness. Pair with S’mores or a dense Orange Olive Oil cake. 

ABV 14.2 %

Pedroncelli 2016 Vintage Port Four Grapes Dry Creek Valley

The 2016 Pedroncelli Vintage Port Four Grapes is an authentic representation of the style using a field blend of traditional Portuguese grapes—30% Tinta Madera 30% Tinta Cao, 20% Souzao, and 20% Touriga Nacional. Smooth, rich and velvety it’s like a warm embrace. On the nose notes of caramel, brown sugar, baking spice, fig newton and blackberry preserves. On the palate balanced flavors of mocha, black cherry, cinnamon, toffee and molasses with a hint of clove on the finish. It’s a great pleasure to drink now, yet it will continue to develop with age. Pair with a classic Blue Stilton cheese. 

ABV 19.5%

Ramazzotti 2013 Rapport Zinfandel Red Dessert Wine 

The Ramazzotti 2013 Rapport Zinfandel Red Dessert wine is fortified with Everclear—the grain alcohol, not the band. The Zinfandel grapes combined with the high proof alcohol create a fresh and fruity wine that’s a little bit Port and a whole lot of Zin. It’s wonderfully balanced and light with the scent of sun-warmed berries and light mocha. On the palate black cherry, molasses, caramel apple, warm toffee, ripe fig and baking spice. Easy, smooth and mellow, sip after sip. Pair with a decadent chocolate bread pudding.

ABV 18%

Trentadue 2019 Zinfandel Port, Alexander Valley 

On the nose the 2019 Trentadue Zinfandel Port has an engaging light scent of violets with secondary aromas of mocha, coffee, ripe black cherry and plum. On the palate it presents flavors of Raisinets, the classic chocolate covered raisin treat and notes of chocolate covered caramel, much like Rollo’s (the elegant cousin to Milk Duds). It’s a veritable trip to the movie house concession stand for all the nostalgic favorites. The long warm finish lingers with notes of dried fruit, black plum and molasses. At only four years of age it’s still very young and will certainly deepen and develop over time. Pair with your favorite old movie. 

ABV 18%

Trione Vineyards and Winery 2010 Fortified Zinfandel, Rockpile Peak Vineyard, Sonoma Coast 

What a treat this is. The Trione Vineyards 2010 Fortified Zinfandel from Rockpile Peak Vineyard is well aged at 13 years old! On the nose brandied cherries, chocolate covered raisins, and toffee. It’s rich and heady. On the palate it’s full of lush flavors of chocolate covered cherries, mocha, caramel apple and fruitcake—really high-end fruitcake. Not the kind of fruitcake that gets re-gifted from year to year, but one you’ll want to keep. Warm and luscious with a long mellow finish. Pair it with a roaring fire and a good book—it’s all you need.

ABV 18%