Michael David, Inkblot Cabernet Franc 2014, Lodi, California

Tasting Note: Wow!

This cabernet franc from Michael David has finesse, charm and is sustainably-produced under the Lodi Rules certification.

Deep-intensity purple-to-ruby in color this aromatic wine has a nose of raspberry, black cherry, blueberry, black plum, cigar box, cedar and clove baking spice.

On the palate the dry, full-bodied cabernet franc shows concentrated red and black fruit flavor supported by grippy, high tannin ultimately completing with a long cedar-infused finish.

This warm-weather cabernet franc is no push over, and it has oomph.

There is midpalate complexity and balance between the fruit and tannin character that is reminiscent of Loire Valley Chinon except produced in a warm-weather style.

If you want to experience California’s cab franc future this is your bottle to try now.

Go further and jump down to Argentina and Chile to explore this developing story on the other side of the equator.

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 on the finish. Velvet smooth tannins, dense and rich this wine fills every corner of the mouth with its decadence. Lodi Rules Sustainable wine growing.

This wine was submitted for review.