Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
California
Grown on several of our estate vineyards, including the Suscol Springs Ranch, the 2021 Cabernet Franc exudes its Napa terroir in the glass. The cool, Pacific-influenced climate of southern Napa, combined with rocky and well-draining soils, generate ideal conditions for deeply colored and aromatic Cabernet Franc.
We harvested the Cabernet Franc in the early morning to retain freshness and vibrant acidity in the grapes. After fermentation in small lots, the wine aged for 17 months in 57% new French oak barrels. The barrels were selected from specific forests in France and toasted to Cakebread Cellars’ specifications to ensure a beautiful integration between Cabernet Franc’s inherent qualities and spicy oak notes. The result is a red that avoids dominant oak flavors while deftly balancing fruit intensity, minerality, spice and freshness.
Expressive opening aromas of violet, blackberry, and dried herbs lead to a palate of ripe cherry and fresh wild berry flavors accented by green tea clove and hints of fennel. The wine is subtle, balanced, and elegantly structured, with firm tannins and bright, refreshing acidity. Mineral undertones and ripe black fruit flavors dominate the long, lingering finish.
- Sourced from estate vineyards throughout Napa Valley to reflect true Napa terroir
- Small lot fermentation and bespoke aging regimens to ensure balance and complexity
- An aromatic red that beautifully integrates fruit, minerality, spice and freshness
