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Opening with fragrant scents of violet, blackberry, boysenberry, bay leaf, and dried herbs, the 2021 Cabernet Franc is a deep and expressive red wine. On the palate, hints of fennel, cardamom, and clove join ripe cherry and fresh wild berry flavors accented by green tea and baking spice. 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.

VINEYARDS & VINTAGE

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.

The 2021 season, though officially a drought year, began with ample rainfall to fill the soils. A mild spring, characterized by below average temperatures and plentiful sunshine, allowed the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly. The result was a small crop of exceptionally concentrated grapes, leading to a well-structured and full- flavored wine that showcases our estate vineyards and will improve with cellaring.

WINEMAKING

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.

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