Peju Province, Napa Valley
Reserve Cabernet Franc (2005)
Peju is an obvious favorite for me, it was one of our first wine clubs to join and I have grown accustomed to its quality blending and grapes. There are a certain number of bottles shipped each quarter that I deem off limits due to their low number in production. Wine, just like art, is worth more when produced in a smaller number.
Apparently my dear Trevor has not read up on my rules of off limits lately and opened one of these Reserve bottles last night. Good thing he made this mistake, the wine was full, juicy, and deeply complex. It boasts a bright garnet color and a nose full of black fruit and delicate violet. An interesting mix.
Since it was aged in both American and French Oak, the glass is giving scents of vanilla and oak that is warm and toasty on a cool night. Hints of red currant and cocoa drift over the rim and I am instantly back in Napa Valley. The heavy use of oak is something I am growing accustomed to in Peju Wines, it is warmer than most.
The finish is long and will possibly carry into the next morning if your not careful.
Quick Fact:
Cabernet Franc, though a Fine French Black Grape, is widely used a blending grape for the more popular Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bit of History:
Cabernet Franc has long been planted in Graves and Medoc as insurance, in case Cabernet Sauvignon does not harvest up to standard.
The most famous Cab Franc is Chateau Cheval Blanc, a Bordeaux property in St Emilion since 1832.
