Sunce Winey & Vineyard, Cabernet Franc 2006, Mazzera Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley, California

Tasting Note: Oh, can California cabernet franc improve with age, and this 2006 bottle wine proves what can harnessed with patience.

Deep-intensity ruby in color, this wine has an aromatic, medium-plus-intensity nose of black plum, pencil shavings, red cherry, raspberry, crushed-dried violet blossom and forest floor.

On the palate the dry, medium-plus-bodied cabernet franc is supple in texture supported by medium acidity and well-integrated medium tannin.

There is midpalate complexity and a flavor persistence especially on the medium-plus, graphite-infused finish.

Cabernet franc lovers, look for ignored, vintage bottles like these from California that are probably being unappreciated in someone’s store or cellar.

Bottle Note: The image on the front is taken from a family photograph painted in oil by Kika Godinovic, a local artist from winemaker Frane Franicevic’s birthplace Sucuraj on the island of Hvar. The dramatic scene tells of Frane’s great-grandfather, a cooper and winemaker, carrying barrels of wine from Hvar to the Croatian mainland for sale in the marketplace circa 1920’s; a centuries old family tradition. We would like to recognize Stephen Mazzera for his enduring patience, expertise & passion in developing this exquisite vineyard. This true to varietal cabernet franc expresses deep mixed berry fruit character, laced with a medley of chili peppers and cardamom spice. Only 13 barrels made.