Double Gold, Best of Class
- Jerry D. Mead's New World International Wine Competition
Gold Medal - U.S. National Wine Competition
Frank Family Vineyards was only founded in 1992, but it has become such a recognized name in Napa Valley Cabernet that it feels like it must be a lot older than that; perhaps this is because they use the original Larkmead Winery building, established in 1884. Whatever the reason, Frank Family has established a reputation, making their wines difficult to come by in any circumstances, let alone at a discount. For this reason, we suggest you don’t miss out on the chance to snag some of their flagship wine, their Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, on this rare occasion that it is available at a discount.
The 2010 vintage was rather cool in Northern California, with a few heat spikes in August and September, but mostly even weather. This was great for thick-skinned varities, like Cabernet, as long as they were in locations warm enough to ripen the grapes before the rains started in mid-October. Frank Family sources their Napa Valley Cabernet from several vineyards in the heart of Napa Valley, where there was plenty of heat and sunshine in 2010. The result is a beautifully rich wine, with great acidity thanks to the slow-ripening of the grapes.
The 2010 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is deep garnet in color, with even a tinge of purple. The nose shows cassis, black cherry, pencil lead, and raspberry jam. The palate echoes these berry and cherry flavors, with dried herb, pepper, and a mineral streak joining in. The finish is rich and spicy, with intriguing notes of herb and crème fraiche. This Cabernet had 9% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cab Franc in the blend, which gives it even more complexity and depth. This is stellar Napa Cabernet, at a price that is seldom seen in the Valley these days. Don’t miss out!
Vintage: 2010
Appellation: 100% Napa Valley
Varietal Composition: 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot, 1% Cabernet Franc
Appellation: Napa Valley
Harvest Date: Sep 20th - Oct 14 th 2010
Acid: 0.73 g/100ml
pH: 3.62
Aging: 20 months in 30% new and 70% once and twice-filled French oak barrels
Alcohol %: 14.5%
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97 Points
Rich dark fruit flavors of blackberry and cherry with notes of baking spices, licorice, coffee, and chocolate that interlace seamlessly with complexity, creating a wine that is both structured and delightfully supple, achieving an ideal balance of tension and grace. Artfully composed of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon with 17% Cabernet Franc, resulting in harmonious depth and freshness.
