varietal: Cabernet Franc

Domaine Filliatreau Chateau Fouquet Saumur Rouge 2015

95
Domaine Filliatreau
Fanciful Name: Chateau Fouquet
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Vintage: 2015
Country of Origin: France
Retail Price: $19.99

Tasting Notes: 100% Cabernet Franc from organically grown grapes from vineyards in the Saumur village of Breze. The wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel. Expressive floral, black fruit and coffee aromas combine with rich earth tones. Concentrated flavors of blackberry, plum and mocha harmonize with firm tannins and a lovely hint of terroir. The finish is long with sweet/tart acidity melding perfectly with the tannins. Decant for at least two hours and pair with roast pork, duck, lamb or game. Though very enjoyable now, this wine will cellar beautifully for 3-5 years.

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Domaine Filliatreau La Grande Vignolle Saumur-Champigny Rouge 2015

96
Domaine Filliatreau
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Vintage: 2015
Country of Origin: France
Appellation: La Grande Vignolle
Retail Price: $22.99

Tasting Notes: The Cabernet Franc for this fabulous wine is grown on the La Grande Vignolle vineyard which is composed of a unique type of limestone called tufa-stone and highly calcareous subsoils. The mineral nuances are evident in the wine from beginning to end. Along with this, there is a lush bouquet of lilac, raspberry, and cherry. There are layers of concentrated red fruit, clove, and licorice flavors with a hint of “cigar-box” leading to a long finish with firm tannins. To enjoy now, decant for at least 2 hours. For optimum enjoyment, lay this one away for 5-7 years. Your patience will be well-rewarded!

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Cosentino Cabernet Franc 2013

90
Cosentino
Fanciful Name: The Franc
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Vintage: 2013
Country of Origin: California
Appellation: Lodi
Retail Price: $10

Tasting Notes: Proof why cabernet sauvignon’s cousin should not get overlooked. Fresh blueberry and violet open things up, then soft notes of wood spice and cream unfold. It is a bit astringent up front, with ample tannins still prevalent, but with time this eases up to let ripe blueberry and cassis flavors emerge.

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Barboursville Cabernet Franc 2012

93
Barboursville
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Vintage: 2012
Country of Origin: Virginia
Retail Price: $25.99

Tasting Notes: A red wine from the state of…Virginia? You bet, and you bet it’s as good as any American Cabernet Franc as well. Brilliant clarity hits your eye the same time ripe red fruits hit your nose. Laced with velvety tannins and a firm, lingering finish, Barboursville Cabernet Franc will make you forget it isn’t from one of the “big time” wine states.

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