California Wines & Wineries

Vinoce Vineyards – 2016 Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc

Posted on May 18, 2020 Updated on June 3, 2020

Brian and Lori Nuss are the founders of Vinoce. The meaning of Vinoce (vin-o-chay) is a play on his name and German-Italian background. In German “nuss” translates as “nut”. In Italian “noce” means nut and thus Vinoce means “wine nut”. But there is nothing nutty about this wine, specifically the 2016 Vinoce Cabernet Franc from Mt Veeder!

Their Cabernet Franc from Mt Veeder is exceptional, partly due to the geology of this designated sub-AVA of Napa Valley. The area is about 25 square miles with approximately 1,000 acres planted. The area is known for its thin volcanic soil and steep mountain face, some as much as 30 degrees. The steepness of the vineyards provide more sunlight and better drainage. Berries are generally smaller than the valley floor as they have to work harder in the volcanic soil with less water. Wines from this region possess strong structure, briarwood flavors and are typically bold. No exception for this Vinoce Cabernet Franc. Mt Veeder accounts for only a little over 1% of total Napa Valley production.

This 2016 Cabernet Franc was entered last December in the California Wines & Wineries Cabernet Franc Competition. In the Category C ($61 to $99) this wine was voted by the Professional Judges as Best of Show and awarded Double Gold. See the complete story at:https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2019/12/05/results-of-cabernet-franc-day-wine-competition-by-california-wines-and-wineries-held-december-4th/

I was so delighted with this wine the other night! First on the eyes, a dark ruby red with a slight purple hue. On the nose, aromas of dark cherry, blackberry and cocoa. On the palate, floral notes, cedar, briarwood, blackberries, cherry, blueberries, along with black pepper/peppercorns engulf ones mouth with a robust explosion. The finish is long with soft leather, a hint of sweet vanilla pipe tobacco, dried herbs and earthiness from Mt Veeder. The tannins were present but not obtrusive.

This is a great example of the premier Cabernet Franc’s coming out of Napa Valley. This is a must have to keep in your cellar. Current list price is $85 at the winery.

Slainte,

Michael
https://californiawinesandwineries.com
https://www.vinoce.com/