Platinum - Critic’s Challenge - May 2015
Double Gold - American Fine Wine Competition - Jan 2015
Gold Medal - SF Chronicle Wine Comp - Jan 2015
Gold Medal - Monterey Wine Competition - Mar 2015
Gold Medal - “North of the Gate” Wine Comp - Mar 2015
Gold Medal - Pacific Rim Wine Competition - April 2015
Gold Medal - Orange County Fair - May 2015
90 points - California Grapevine - April 1, 2015
Voted #1 Best Napa Winery - Bay Area A-List
We recently had the chance to attend an event put on by the Carneros Vintners Alliance which both celebrated 30 years of the organization, as well as highlighting the potential for growing great Chardonnay in this cool, coastal microclimate just north of San Francisco Bay. Tasting through some of the top chardonnays in the region, it became clear that renaissance is happening in this AVA, one of America’s oldest, and the first to be defined by weather across two counties. Today’s Heist, from Frank Family, beautifully shows what Carneros has to offer to Chardonnay drinkers.
The 2013 Frank Family Carneros Chardonnay is medium straw in color, with a touch of gold. The nose displays powerful tropical aromas of lime, papaya, and kiwi, with baked apple in the mix as well. The palate shows brighter apple and lemon flavors and undertones of peach pie and baking spice. Medium to full bodied with great length, this is early evidence that the hype about 2013 is true, and we may have a stellar vintage to look forward to form California. Chardonnay lovers will not want to miss this one.
Vintage: 2013
Varietal Composition: 100% Chardonnay
Appellation: Napa Valley
Harvest Date: September 2th - October 9th, 2013
Acid: 0.57 g/100ml TA
pH: 3.55
Aging: Barrel fermented in 34% new, 33% once and 33% twice-filled French oak barrels for 9 months.
Alcohol: 14.5%
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94 Points
A classic expression of coastal influenced Chardonnay with aromas of honey, apple chutney, lime blossom, and gentle Indian spice box undertones. A big juicy entry on the palate, showing a silky texture with excellent tension and structure, ending with a complex, layered finish.
92 Points
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, strawberry, and pomegranate. The palate unfolds with layered flavors of black cherry, raspberry cordial, vanilla bean and spice, where focused tannins envelop, leading to a rich red fruit finish with blue fruit undertones.
93 Points
Big, forward bouquet with pear, golden apple, apple blossom, and dried orange peel. Loads of lime and grapefruit on the palate, maintaining balanced acidity and freshness. Subtle notes of honey and white flowers add depth to this lively wine.
