Michael David, Inkblot Cabernet Franc 2013, Lodi, California

Tasting Note: A silky, fruit-forward expression of cabernet franc with a healthy, cedar-tannin-led back that reveals the best of what the grape can achieve in a warm climate.

Deep purple in color this wine has an intensely aromatic nose of ripe red and black fruit including stewed black plum, red cherry, violet and raspberry.

There is also sweet baking spice and a young, dry cedar overlay of medium intensity on the nose.

On the palate the wine is medium-plus bodied with fruit suggested on the nose continuing to the palate with grippy, medium-plus tannin that kicks in mid-palate through to a long finish that includes some jammy raisin.

Bottle Note: Despite being one of the most planted grape varietals in the world, cabernet franc is far less known than its more famous offspring cabernet sauvignon. Grapes come from a 9 acre vineyard on the west side of Lodi, within close range of the winery. Showing complex aromas of freshly crushed blackberry, plum, pepper and tobacco. It offers black cherry on the mid-palate and a touch of graphite finish. Velvet smooth tannins, dense and rich this wine fills every corner of the mouth with its decadence.