The first days of spring growing up always coincided with my preseason practice for softball. The smell of fresh cut grass, still dewy with March rains. The hint of leather in the air from your well worn glove. The breeze carrying faint floral scents that mingle with the dust of the infield.
My glass of Cabernet Franc after a swirl or two took me back to those memories with its nose of roses, celery, dark berries, green pepper, and leather. This wine was spring in a glass. Now I just have to dig out my old glove and get outside. I’m a big fan of Cabernet Franc and these wines did not let me down. Here are a few of my favorites with a more interesting palate that pairs perfectly with spring.
Domaine de la Noblaie Chinon “Les Chiens- Chien”
This wine is a lovely balance of spice and silkiness with a pleasing gravely mouth feel that allows the finish to linger. This red is typically produced from 40-80 year old vines.
Two California favorites come from a Cabernet Franc pioneer in the Santa Ynez Wine region. Rick Longoria yearly makes a lovely blend that emphasizes Cabernet Franc and his love of music
This proprietary red wine blend was first produced in 1993, with an emphasis on the Cabernet Franc grape. Since then it has evolved to include other Bordeaux grape varietals and recently even some Syrah. In addition to its quality as a complex wine suitable for aging, the wine has gained an audience for its artist series labels commemorating the blues. Every other year we commission a different artist to create artwork for the label. The Blues Cuvée celebrates the musical and visual arts and the liquid art of wine, all in one package.
My other favorite Cabernet Franc from Longoria is Evidence
Evidence is based on four of the classic Bordeaux grape varietals; Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon. We feel this is our finest example of the art of blending. Each year we select the very best lots of each varietal and create the most complex and harmonious blend possible. The wines are rich, extracted, and can be cellared for a decade or more. I firmly believe that Santa Barbara County is capable of producing world class Bordeaux-style wines.
You can shop for either wine here
Life is too short to drink bad wine