Caladan Cabernet Franc Napa Valley, USA 2017

VINTAGE : 2017

COUNTRY : USA

REGION/APPELLATION : California, Napa Valley

VARIETALS : 77% Cabernet Franc 23% Merlot

The 2017 growing season began with a much-welcomed wet spring followed by a temperate summer. A mid-September heatwave was succeeded by a cooling period which lengthened hang-times leading to optimal fruit ripeness. The second week of October experienced strong winds which, combined with high temperatures and dry conditions, brought disaster in the form of wildfires. With great fortune, the entirety of the fruit for this wine was harvested before this devastating event.

The one-word tasting note for this wine is exotic. The 2017 Caladan opens with dark cherry, Asian spice, and floral notes of rose petal on the nose, followed by a lush palate. The Cabernet Franc and Merlot ride in perfect harmony throughout the long finish, with delicate minerality and sleek tannin structure.