Library Wines

2008 Monticello Vineyards Estate Grown Cabernet Franc

Price: $38.00
Qty:

  • Print:   Tasting Notes

    This wine is showing nice expressive aromas of light red berry fruits like red cherries and strawberries. There is a nice mix of light spices on the nose as well. I find notes of vanilla and cinnamon which match well with the natural spice and fruit from the grapes. On the palate, the wine is medium bodied and has a generous texture, really filling up the palate with richness. There is a nice balance of acidity which keeps the texture vibrant while at the same time allowing its lushness to come through. The finish is long and full of sweet tannins which I find very appealing. Drink Now through 2015. – Chris Corley, Winemaker.
  • Vineyards:
    Home Ranch Vineyard - Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District
    Knollwood Vineyard - Napa Valley, Oak Knoll District

    Our 2008 vintage Cabernet Franc like our 07 marks a departure from the previous vintages. In the past, we have bottled blends of our 4 different clones, although the resulting wine has remained close to or at 100% varietal as Cabernet Franc. This year, we have incorporated 15% of our estate grown Merlot. While I’ve played around with incorporating other varietals into the Cabernet Franc in past vintages, I’ve gravitated towards the pure varietal blends. However, the positive impact of the Merlot once again enhances the overall wine.

    These grapes were hand sorted prior to crushing and fermented in stainless steel tanks on a cultured yeast strain. The grapes were on the skins for 14 days and were pressed shortly after dryness. The free run and press fractions were kept separate and only the free run portions of both the Cabernet Franc and Merlot were used in this blend. Malolactic Fermentation took place in the barrels, 30% of which were new French Oak (Center of France forest, Medium Plus Toast). The wine was aged in barrel for 18 months and was gently racked every four months to help clarify the wine and provide it a breath of fresh air from time to time.

    Oak – 18 Months in French Oak, 30% New
    Alcohol - 14.2%
  • "92 Points" - Wine Enthusiast, December 2010
    One of the prettier Cab Francs on the market, showing fine Napa structure and intricate flavors that grow more complex as the wine warms in the glass. With red and black cherry, red licorice, teriyaki beef and sweetly smoked cedar flavors, it’s a beautiful wine to drink now. — S.H.
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