2021 Duckhorn Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Franc
In Stock
At Duckhorn Vineyards, we have been working with Napa Valley Cabernet Franc for over a quarter century, exploring its ability to add elegance and complexity to our blends and its capacity to produce stand-alone wines of stature and sophistication. Incorporating valley floor fruit with an emphasis on older vines, low yields and warmer vineyards, our Cabernet Franc offers beautiful varietal notes of dark cherry, raspberry and red currant with hints of tobacco leaf and graphite.
Wine Profile
Production Notes
Varietal Composition: 97% Cabernet Franc, 2% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1% Merlot
Winemaker Notes
Both elegant and expansive, this wine begins with alluring aromas of blackberry, cassis, fig and cocoa powder. On the palate, luxurious layers of dark berries, bay leaf and anise are framed by supple, elegant tannins and a core of bright acidity that adds energy and nuance to a long, complex finish.
Production
Despite an unusually dry winter and warm spring, budbreak was delayed due to light rain in March. The overall lack of rainfall led to light clusters and small berries, which resulted in reduced yields and great concentration. Harvest began on August 5th with Semillon, and early heat generated a fast and furious first few weeks of picking. A much-needed mid-September cool-down allowed for sugars to realign with flavor development. Moderate temperatures continued throughout the rest of the season, providing additional hangtime for the grapes. Our last red grapes were harvested before the rains in late October, resulting in beautiful wines that are dense, pure and polished.
Wine Specs
Wine Specs
Vintage
2021
Varietal
Cabernet Franc
Appellation
Napa Valley
Acid
0.56 g/100 ml
pH
3.73
Aging
Aged 16 months in 100% French oak 50% new, 50% neutral
Alcohol %
14.5