2018 L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc – One of the Best Cabernet Franc’s Available
At the April 2022 International Cabernet Franc Blind Wine Competition and Celebration held in Copperopolis, California, 2018 L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc won several awards. Two sets of judges presided over the tasting, one being the Professional Judges and the other being People’s Choice Judges. The Professional Judge’s in the $76 to $100 price range category, awarded a Gold Medal and Best of Class to the 2018 L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc. This was the only wine in this prestigious category to receive a Gold Medal from the Judges. For more information you can read the following story:
The Wine – 2018
Ghielmetti and Sachau Vineyards have been a long-time source for Steven’s wine be it Cabernet Sauvignon or Cabernet Franc. The one block at Ghielmetti of Cabernet Franc Clone 332 is 3.7 acres in size. Sachau vineyard is six acres in size with a loamy soil. The 50/50 combination of the two (each aged separately) then with 4% Cabernet Sauvignon added provided the best of both vineyards. On the eyes, a bright and dark reddish/purple coloring, with medium viscosity. On the nose a very fruit forward aroma of raspberry and blackberry fruits. On the palate, besides the fruit bursting with excitement, you are rewarded with chocolate, jasmine tea and minerality. The finish provides rounded and defined tannins without overt edges, giving one a silky landing. The finish is mid-lasting with a tinge of fruit sweetness, yet with subtle pyrazines in play. Using once used French barrels, this wine does not have a predominance of oak but rather allows the fruit to be showcased. This wine was released in early March and is $98/bottle with only 145 cases produced.
The Food and Wine Pairing
Last night wanted a very opulent and tasty wine to go with a seared BBQ’ed ribeye steak served medium rare. Accompanied with twice baked potatoes, garlic bread and a fresh garden salad. The wine and steak were not just compatible, but rather gave a huge “bear hug” to each other. Cabernet Franc with a seared ribeye is perhaps one of my favorite food and wine pairings. Now add one of the best Cabernet Franc’s available, it made a wonderful meal.
Sláinte,
Michael
California Wines & Wineries 