Hunter Estate Vineyards 2017 Cabernet Franc – Two Silver Medals
At the National Cabernet Franc Wine Competition held December 2nd, 2020, Hunter Glenn Estate Vineyards earned a Silver Medal by both the Professional and People’s Choice Judges for their 2017 Cabernet Franc. You can read more about the event at:
Also other stories on Hunter Glenn Estate Vineyards wines can be found at:
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2020/01/22/hunter-glenn-2017-chardonnay-2016-syrah/
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2020/12/08/2018-hunter-glenn-chardonnay-understated-elegance/
The Winery
To start out who is Hunter Glenn? It is a sister/brother duo of Caroline Shifflett and Jeffrey Shifflett, Jr. The name came about as Caroline’s middle name is Hunt and Jeffrey is Glenn. Changing the name to Hunter made more sense than “Hunt Glenn”!! The family has a long history in Napa Valley. It started in 1942 with the purchase of 120 acres in the foothills of the Mayacamas Range. Originally used for farming and later for cattle grazing, but in the late 1970’s they planted 60 acres of grapes. In 1981 the first Chardonnay was planted and from that point albeit with a few bumps in the road like Phylloxera, Pierce’s Disease and weather variables, they have endured to produce some outstanding wines over the last 30 years. Today they produce Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, a red blend and Cabernet Franc.
The Wine
A deep royal purple on the eyes and medium heavy viscosity. On the nose aromatics of blueberries and raspberries awaken the senses. On the palate, a round and soft Cabernet Franc, still with tannins but caressing instead of sharp. The finish has a hint of pyrazines (green bell pepper) and is mid-length. This is an easily drinking Cabernet Franc with or without food. The wine is aged 21 months in 50% new French oak barrels and only 81 cases were produced. The wine sells for $80.
The Food Pairing
Paired last evening with prime rib with a spicy dry rub, Yukon Gold potatoes and broccoli. Uncut horseradish on the side for the prime rib. Not having tasted this wine before, it was a bit “too soft” for this meal. I think a stronger and more “chewy” Cabernet Franc would have worked better. This wine would be phenomenal with pasta and a Bolognese sauce, various pork dishes and even spicy paella. After dinner and enjoying the second glass of wine, this proved to be extremely enjoyable and tasty without food.
Sláinte,
Michael
California Wines & Wineries 