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- 94 Points, Lisa Perotti-Brown
2022 Sugarloaf Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley
Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard, Napa Valley
SUGARLOAF Mountain Vineyard is located in the Southeast corner of Napa Valley on a west facing hillside with unobstructed views of the San Pablo Bay. It's hallmark Basalt soils with volcanic deposits help the Bordeaux varieties reach ripeness while it's proximity to the bay helps retain vibrant acidity.
This Cabernet Franc comes from a block midslope and experiences massive diurnal shifts form day to night during the growing season creating a fresh, full bodied take on Cabernet Franc.
Profile
The palate mirrors the aromatic complexity, delivering a layered and vibrant expression of Cabernet Franc. Red cherry, raspberry, and plum are at the forefront, displaying a juicy and energetic fruit core. The Cabernet Franc's signature herbaceousness is beautifully integrated, with notes of red bell pepper, dried herbs, and a subtle hint of spice, adding depth and intrigue. Distinctive mineral notes of graphite and crushed stone emerge on the mid-palate, reflecting the basalt soils. The oak is seamlessly woven in, providing a gentle frame of spice and vanilla, complementing the fruit and savory elements. A vibrant acidity is a defining feature, providing exceptional balance, lift, and a mouthwatering freshness that speaks to the cool-site terroir.
Appearance: Medium-deep ruby core, radiating to a vibrant ruby-garnet rim. The color is bright and clear, showcasing the youthful energy of the wine. It displays good clarity and moderate viscosity, with elegant tears that suggest a balanced structure and medium-plus body, leaning towards full.
Aroma: The nose is immediately expressive and distinctly Cabernet Franc, showcasing a captivating blend of fruit, spice, and savory notes. Aromatic red and black fruits are prominent, with ripe raspberry, red cherry, and black plum, beautifully interwoven with signature Cabernet Franc aromatics. Expect to find notes of fresh red bell pepper, dried herbs like thyme and bay leaf, and a distinctive graphite minerality, hinting at the basalt soils. Elegant oak influence is present, lending subtle notes of vanilla and cedar, enhancing the complexity without masking the varietal character. A refreshing coolness and lift are evident, reflecting the diurnal shifts and maritime influence of Sugarloaf Mountain.
Winemaker notes
Hand picked at night, 100% destemmed, sorted and moved to whole berry fermenters. Fermented in closed top stainless steel tanks. Pumpovers, Pulseair and punchdowns deployed at different stages of fermentation based on realtime phenolic data.
This 2022 Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard Cabernet Franc is a compelling and refined expression of 100% Cabernet Franc from a unique South Napa site. It showcases the varietal's signature aromatic complexity, with a beautiful interplay of red fruit, savory herbs, and mineral notes, enhanced by the cool-site terroir and basalt soils. The wine is beautifully balanced, with vibrant acidity, elegant tannins, and a refreshing overall character. It represents a fresh and full-bodied take on Cabernet Franc, highlighting the potential of Sugarloaf Mountain to produce wines of both depth and finesse. This is a sophisticated and expressive Cabernet Franc, perfect for enjoying now and over the medium-term, showcasing the distinctive terroir of this South Napa vineyard.
Wine specs
- Vintage 2022
- Varietal Cabernet Franc (100%)
- Aging 16 Months, 70-85% New French Oak
- Serving Temp 55F
- Winemaker Collin Cranor & Craig Ploof
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2022 Sugarloaf Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley
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