91 Points - Wine Spectator, Sept 30, 2017
90 Points - Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine, Aug 2017
Best of Class - SAVOR (North of the Gate) Mar 2017
Double Gold - New World International, Feb 2017
Gold Medal - West Coast Wine Competition, Feb 2017
Gold Medal - Monterey Wine Competition, Mar 2017
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.
VINEYARDS
The S&J Vineyard is made up of 206 acres of land located east of the Vaca Mountain range in Napa’s Capell Valley. Purchased in 2000, it is named for Darryl Frank’s children, Stella and Jeremy, and is planted to 58 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, along with 9 acres of Petite Sirah and 9 acres of Zinfandel. The soils are fertile, well-drained and clay loam-based, reminiscent of the Rutherford Bench.
The Benjamin Vineyard is located east of Conn Creek Road in the heart of the Rutherford AVA. Purchased by Rich Frank in 2012, the 87-acre parcel was formerly known as Wood Ranch was renamed for Paul Frank’s son, and is planted with 50 acres of Cabernet Sauvignon, 8 acres of Petit Verdot, and 2 acres each of Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. The vineyard is composed of gravelly loam soil as a result of sediment from the Conn Creek and Napa River which flowed through the region thousands of years ago.
Additional vineyard sources: Round Pond Estate in Rutherford; Delouise, Gaskins, and Shooting Star Vineyards located in Napa Valley.
NOTES
The 2014 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is pure and elegant, with generous, supple plum, cherry and raspberry notes. The palate is opulent, full-bodied, and reminiscent of cocoa-dusted dark chocolate truffles, cloves and blackberries. Sings with flavors of chocolate, kirsch, and eucalyptus. All supported by fine, ripe tannins that give the flavors traction and length. This is outstanding Napa Cabernet. It's broad, savory, and pretty much everything you want in a Cabernet. Enjoy now, or cellar for another 10+ years.
Vintage: 2014
Appellation: 100% Napa Valley
Varietal Composition:
77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petite Verdot
Appellation: Napa Valley
Harvest Date: September 3rd - October 16th, 2014
Aging: 20 months in 33% new and 67% once and twice-filled French oak barrels.
pH: 3.60
TA: 0.64 g/100ml
Alcohol %: 14.5%
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Violet black in color with aromas of rich fruity dark berries, honeycomb, vanilla, and hints of forest floor join together with bold flavors of black cherry, and spiced nut. Balanced oak, layered palette, leaving you with a enjoyable persistent finish.
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Aromas and robust flavors of dark cherry, blackberries, mocha, espresso and hints of black pepper. Incredibly balanced with a smooth mouthfeel and body against a backdrop of structured tannins. The wine unfolds with notes of clove and dried herbs, ending with a long rich finish.
Rich & Luxurious!
Beautiful ruby color and opens with aromas of bright red plum and raspberry, cassis, and a touch of mint. The tannins are soft yet structured, and complemented by vibrant acidity, with hints of clove and baking spice from the oak aging. The wine ends with a long, smooth finish and lingering intensity encouraging you to enjoy another juicy sip.
Rich & Tropical...
Notes of tropical and ripe stone fruits, with aromas of fig, golden apple and hints of butterscotch, integrated with the richer aromas of light caramel, truffle and toasted vanilla from the oak aging. The palate and texture is rich, full-bodied and creamy, while maintaining a balanced vibrancy and finish.
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