2020 - Cabernet Franc - Cienega Valley

We’re delighted to announce our first vintage of Cabernet Franc from this incredible vineyard. The grapes were harvested by hand, then crushed and fermented in small batches before spending 20 months in French oak barrels.

 

 

Vineyard: DeRose Vineyard sits at 1100’ elevation, with granite, limestone, and sandstone providing excellent drainage. The Cienega valley is formed by the Gabilan Mountains to the west and the Diablo Range to the east, providing a temperate climate. Warm days along with cool nights and low rainfall contribute to a small crop of spicy and intensely aromatic Cabernet Franc grapes and a wine that is full-bodied and plush on the palate. 

 

 

92 points, Wine Enthusiast: “Quite a dark shade in the glass, this bottling is lush and spicy on the nose with black cherry and intense chai cream flavors. Feathery tannins frame the sip, where intense red fruit, clove and vanilla flavors settle into the creamy texture.”