Back in Bordeaux, cabernet franc is considered a blending grape, with small amounts traditionally added to wines made primarily from cabernet sauvignon and/or merlot. But this Kenefick Ranch wine is the opposite: it is made mainly from cabernet franc with small percentages of other grapes blended in. And the wine is incredibly fruity because Napa’s climate allows the cabernet franc grape to ripen better than it could in Bordeaux, historically.
While this is not a supremely complex wine, it is intense in flavor. Dark red robed fruit fills the palate. As the wine opens, easy-going tannins and bright acidity appear, and lengthen into the finish. Before drinking, decant if possible or allow some time to breathe after opening the bottle.
Food pairings: pasta, meat or vegetables without heavy sauces.
WHO: Kenefick Ranch
WHAT: 82% cabernet franc, 9% merlot, 9% petit verdot
WHERE: Calistoga, Napa Valley, California
HOW MUCH: $50 (media sample)