Canyon Wind Cellars
2010 Cabernet Franc
ALC: 14.09 % Price: $18.95
Received from Canyon Wind Cellars for review
Bottle Notes:
“Planted in 1991, Canyon Wind Cellars is a family-owned, estate winery named for the mountain breezes and canyon winds that nurture the fruit on our high altitude vineyard. With the assistance of renowned Napa winemaker, Robert Pepi, the Christianson family produces terroir-driven, signature wines utilizing sustainable and low-intervention wine making practices.”
Our Tasting Notes:
I will start with a little honesty. I am not a huge Cab Franc fan. In fact, I’m not even a small Cab Franc fan. It seems as though making a 100% Cab Franc is an art mastered by a small, small, (did I say SMALL?) percentage of winemakers. In my tasting experience, Cab Franc is best used in a blend when accompanied by a few other Bordeaux varietals. This Canyon Wind Cellars Cab Franc may have opened my eyes to the possibility that Cab Franc bottled all on its own can really be a magical thing.
As I poured my first glass I immediately noticed the bright yet pale color similar to Pinot Noir. It had a subdued aroma of raspberries as well as raspberry flavors and peppery undertones. This wine was smooth and silky from start to finish. Quite the find at about $19 a bottle.
For more info check out: http://www.canyonwindcellars.com
I have to admit that I am a big Cab Franc fan and I’ve tried it from wineries all over America (it really should be the signature red of Virginia where they make some great Franc). I just finished a bottle of Canyon Wind’s 2010 Franc last night and its light, smooth body was different from most and quite refreshing. I think I’ll head up to their tasting room in Georgetown this coming week to pick up two more bottles and chill one. I have a hunch that chilling it would make for a great summer red.
Yes, this Canyon Wind Cab Franc is exactly what you said – light and refreshing. I really enjoyed it myself. I would love to visit their tasting room if I am ever in the Colorado area.
Thanks for your comment Tom and thanks for reading our blog. Cheers!