I’ve always enjoyed a good glass of Cabernet Franc and consider it possibly the most food friendly wine. Its flavor profile pairs with so many things I love such as roasted chicken, pork tenderloin, red meat served medium rare, anything barbequed, and even fish with rich, savory sauces. Frankly, it’s not easy to find that wonderful Cabernet Franc since the terroir, weather conditions, winemaking techniques, and more affect the end product. When at tastings, I always hope that I have a terrific find, but sometimes it just doesn’t happen. Lucky for me, my wish was granted when I discovered a gorgeous, aromatic, full bodied, and incredibly balanced wine. Sent to me as a sample, Stepping Stone by Cornerstone’s Napa Valley Cabernet Franc 2010 is quite simply genius in a bottle.
Many of you have read about my previous reviews of wines from Stepping Stone by Cornerstone and know how enthusiastic I am of their wines which are made to be easy drinking and just perfect for every day enjoyment. Located in Yountville, California, Jeff Keene, winemaker, continues to create delicious wines which are consistently excellent and the Cabernet Franc is no exception. Being the last to ripen, this grape is often difficult to grow. However, Napa Valley’s cool southern AVAs, Carneros, Oak Knoll, and Coombsville, and areas with cool microclimates, Oakville and St. Helena, are quality regions where Cabernet Franc may thrive. This particular wine is comprised of Cabernet Franc (92%) harvested from St. Helena and Carneros and, for balance and brightness, Merlot (8%) from Carneros. Finally, it was aged for 18 months in 50% new French oak and 50% mature French oak.
**Stepping Stone by Cornerstone Napa Valley Cabernet Franc 2010 – Immediately after uncorking, aromas leapt from the bottle…and I intuitively knew that this was going to be one.good.bottle.of.wine. I poured a glass and let it breathe for about fifteen minutes while I savored the aromas of vanilla, mint, lavender, and dark berries. The first sip (and then another) revealed a rich, all encompassing mouthfeel with integrated tannins, lively acidity, and a complexity which was satisfying enough for me to close my eyes (really!). Tastes of red and black fruit, herbs, and spice with a dash of pepper paired beautifully with roasted Portobello mushrooms and port tenderloin. You can drink this now or hold for around seven more years…I think you know what I’d choose! Cost is $35 and you can order this Cabernet Franc 2010 from the website if you can’t find it in your area. No wishful thinking – just do it!
Genius in a bottle? Absolutely! Thanks to Jeff Keene, the mélange of aromas after uncorking led me to believe that there were going to be some surprises and magic inside. And I was right! Now, for those three (well, maybe twelve…as in a case) wishes!
Cheers to delicious Cabernet Franc from Stepping Stone! ~ Cindy
