Relic Wine Cellars "The Prior" Cabernet Franc 2018

Our 2018 is dark, powerful and layered. The color is deepest red with a dark core. Aromatics of dark plum, black cherry, briary blackberries, coffee, Madagascar chocolate, a hint of bay and floral notes fill the glass. The palate is dense and saturating with layers of deep fruit, framed by bountiful, but never harsh tannins. The finish promises a beautifully long life!

Enthusiasts of Napa Valley Cabernet Franc often gravitate that direction because they love the power and richness that Cabernet Sauvignon offers, but also the stony elements and floral aromatics that Franc brings to the equation. Since 2014, this bottling has been based on the beautiful Cabernet Franc that Jim Frediani and his sisters grow in the gravelly alluvium of Simmons Creek just south of Calistoga. These berries are tiny and soak up the sun most of the growing season. The result is intensely rich, but also structured Cabernet Franc.

Vineyards: Cabernet Franc from 35 year-old vines planted in deep volcanic gravel of Frediani Vineyards on Pickett Road. Cabernet Sauvignon from Kenefick Ranch, Block 7, located near the end of Pickett Road, across the street from Eisele Vineyard. Merlot from Shifflett Vineyard, Oak Knoll

Aged for 21 months in 100% new French Darnajou and Bossuet barrels. Wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered.