Easton, Cabernet Franc 2012, Monarch Mine Vineyard, Sierra Foothills, California

Tasting Note: An earthy, hot-weather cabernet franc that nods towards the Old World.

Deep ruby in color intensity this wine has a nose of red and purple fruit including red cherry, raspberry and hibiscus as well as clove, vanilla and ginger baking spice.

On the palate the cab franc is medium-plus in body, acidity and tannin.

The dry, red is restrained in fruit character leaning towards an earthy, Old World, French-Chinon style but with riper fruit than would normally be produced in the Loire Valley.

Tannin is grippy in texture with developing mid-palate complexity.

Bottle Note: Our Easton cabernet franc is grown on rocky slopes at the Monarch Mine Vineyard overlooking the precipitous American River canyon at 2,400 feet in the dramatic Sierra Nevada of California. It is crafted in small lots in a traditional Loire-style, with vibrant fresh fruit, spicy aromatics, and little wood aging. Drink it as a young wine or age it for a couple of years to refine its texture and bring out more of its complex nuances. – Jane O’Riordan & Bill Easton