While Cabernet Franc has been ascendant in terms of its percentage of the overall blend, 2017 saw Merlot taking its place as the second largest contributor at 20%. This variety was remarkably structured and flavorful, surpassing the 2009 as the best Merlot we have worked with. Generally, we look to Cabernet Sauvignon to contribute structure, Cabernet Franc - acid-driven red fruit, and Merlot – mid-palate flesh. In this grand wine, these varieties play their accustomed roles but at an amplitude unseen in 11 vintages. This wine is gorgeously massive and will require 5-10 years to begin to show its myriad complexities.
Blend: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon; 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc