Cabernet Franc
Results of the 7th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition – Dedicated Exclusively to Cabernet Franc Wines
Not all the bottles of competition shown (Photo ©Michael Kelly)
The 7th Annual International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition was held yesterday on March 3rd, at the Copperopolis Armory. It was constructed in 1864 and is now a California designated Historical Site. The format for the blind competition utilizes the Danish system, where the wines are “bagged and tagged and marked with coded numbers”. There were four tables of wine judges (2 tables of Professional Judges and 2 tables People’s Choice Judges each with 3 judges at each table) voting on medal designation, Best of Category, Best of Show and Grand Sweepstakes Winner. If all could not agree on the medal, which does happen, then a lively discussion going over the key characteristics of the specific wine is debated to reach a consensus award by each group of judges.
In total there were eight Divisions this year. They were the Eastern Division, Central Division, Northwest Division, Southwest Division, California Division, International, Blend (must be 50% Cab Franc) and Specialty (Cab Franc Ice Wine, Rose, Appassimento, Blanc, etc.). For the California Division it was further broken down by price categories. In total 94 wines entered the competition. The event started at 9:00 am and went non-stop, concluding around 2:30 pm with a luncheon for the judges and volunteers.
The two Professional Judge’s tables are shown below:
Professional Judges (L to R-Fran Cunniffe, Martha Dunne, Tom Bender)
Professional Judges (L to R- Mike Dunne, Debi Miller, Tana Cole)
Scrolling further down will be shown all the awards given by both the Professional Judges and People’s Choice Judges.
The Grand Sweepstakes winner from the Professional Judges was the 2023 Steven Kent Winery, L’Autre Côte Cabernet Franc from Livermore, California. In addition, they won Best of Category in the $111 and up grouping, a Gold Medal and Best of Show in the California Division.
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
The Grand Sweepstakes winner from the People’s Choice Judges was the 2022 Donati Family Vineyards, from Templeton, California (just south of Paso Robles). They won Best of Category, Double Gold Medals and Best of Show California Division.
(Photo ©Michael Kelly)
Details on both Grand Sweepstakes winners will be forthcoming in the coming weeks. Below is the list for Best of Class and Medal Awards (just showing Double Gold, Gold, & Bronze) for the various Divisions. No awards and/or disqualification are not listed.
PROFESSIONAL JUDGES RESULTS:
Specialty Division: Best of Show: Pillitteri Estates 2022 Ice Wine
2024 Silver Crest Rosé – Silver (Ohio)
2023 Silver Crest Rosé – Silver (Ohio)
2024 Concannon Vineyards Rosé – Silver (Livermore)
2025 3 Steves Rosé – Gold (Livermore)
2022 Pillitteri Estates Appassimento – Gold (Canada)
2021 Pillitteri Estates Ice Wine – Double Gold (Canada)
Woo Girl Cellars Rosé – Bronze (Woodbridge)
International Division: Best of Show Pillitteri Estates
2022 Corazon del Sol from Argentina – Silver
2022 Pillitteri Estates from Canada – Gold
Eastern Division: Best of Show 2023 Pollak Vineyards, Virginia
Pearmund Cellars – 2022 Silver (Virginia)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
Pollak Vineyards – 2022 Reserve Gold (Virginia)
Boundary Breaks – 2024 Gold (Finger Lakes)
Pollak Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Virginia)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
Stony Run Winery – 2020 Gold (Pennsylvania)
Central Division: 2021 Best of Show Silver Crest (Ohio)
Silver Crest Cellars – 2021 Silver (Ohio)
Northwest Division: Best of Show 2022 Camaraderie Cellars
Bitner Vineyards – 2021 Silver (Idaho)
Barrage Cellars – 2023 Silver (Washington)
Hard Row to Hoe – 2023 Silver (Washington)
Alexandria Nicole Cellars – 2022 Silver (Washington)
Barrage Cellars – 2019 Silver (Washington)
Camaraderie Cellars – 2022 Double Gold (Washington)
Pend d’ Oreillo Winery – 2022 Gold (Idaho)
Van Arum Vineyards – 2023 Bronze (Washington)
Roghani Vineyards – 2020 Gold (Idaho)
Spangler Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Southern Oregon)
Southwest Division: Best of Show Vivac Winery (New Mexico)
High Lonesome Vineyard – 2020 Bronze (Arizona)
Vivac Winery – 2023 Bronze (New Mexico)
California Division Overall: Best of Show 2023 Steven Kent Winery for L’Autre Côte
California Best of Category: $40 and less Cielo Sulla Terra Estate (Fairplay)
Almost Famous Wine -2023 Gold Loyal to the Soil (Livermore)
Soquel Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Santa Cruz Mtns)
Omega Road Winery – 2021 Bronze (Livermore)
Cielo Sulla Terra Estate – Gold (Fairplay)
Concannon Vineyard – 2023 Reserve Silver (Livermore)
Frog’s Tooth Winery – 2024 Bronze (grapes from Sonoma)
Del Valle Winery – 2022 Gold (Livermore)
Almost Famous Wine – 2023 Gold / Firepit Society (Livermore)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Almost Famous Wine – 2023 Silver / Strong Silent (Livermore)
Domenico Winery – 2021 Bronze (California)
Jeff Runquist Wines – 2024 Gold (grapes from Clarksburg)
Val du Vino Winery – 2022 Bronze (grapes from Clement Hills)
Prie Winery – 2023 Bronze (Lodi)
California Category $41 to $50: Best of Category Garre Winery (Livermore)
Darcie Kent Winery – 2023 Gold Stone Patch (Livermore)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – 2021 Gold (Livermore)
Dracaena Wines – 2023 Gold (Paso Robles)
Darcie Kent Winery – 2023 Double Gold Lemmons (Livermore)
Garre Winery – 2022 Double Gold (Livermore)
Concannon – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Shale Canyon Wines – 2021 Silver (Monterey)
Cuda Ridge Wines – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Concannon – 2023 Estate Silver (Livermore)
Arroyo Cellars – 2023 Gold (Livermore)
San Pasquel Winery – 2023 Silver (San Diego County)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Livermore)
Occasio Winery – 2021 Double Gold (Livermore)
McKenzie-Mueller Winery – 2021 Silver (Napa Valley)
3 Steves Winery – 2020 Silver (Livermore)
Sea Shell Cellars – 2022 Silver (Paso Robles)
California Category $51 to $60: Best of Category Donati Family Vineyards (Templeton)
Le Vigne Winery – 2022 Silver (Paso Robles)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – 2022 Double Gold (Livermore)
J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines -2023 Gold (Paso Robles)
Donati Family Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Templeton)
California Category $61 to $70: Best of Category Selin Cellars (Windsor/Sonoma)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver Ghielmetti (Livermore)
Titus Vineyards – 2023 Silver (St. Helena)
McGrail Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Livermore)
Selin Cellars – 2022 Double Gold (Windsor/Sonoma)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver Sachau (Livermore)
Hawk & Horse Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Lower Lake)
Burtech Family – 2023 Gold (San Diego/grapes from Alexander Valley)
Hawk & Horse Vineyards -2023 Silver (Lower Lake)
California Category $71 to $90: Best of Category Yates Family Vineyards (Mt Veeder)
Smith-Madrone Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Spring Mtn)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Gold Culmination (Livermore)
Los Positas Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2022 Silver Culmination (Livermore)
Yates Family Vineyards – Double Gold (Mt Veeder/Napa Valley)
California Category $91 to $110: Best of Category LXV Wines (Paso Robles)
LXV Wines – 2023 Gold (Paso Robles)
Middle Oaks Wine – 2022 Gold (grapes from Coombsville)
Ledson Winery & Vineyards – 2022 Gold (Kenwood)
California Category $111 and up: Best of Category Steven Kent Winery (Livermore)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 L’Autre Côte Gold (Livermore)
Mountain Terraces Winery & Vineyard – 2019 Gold (Moon Mtn/Glen Ellen)
Blend Division: Best of Show 2023 Cuda Ridge Melange d’ Amis (Livermore)
Justin Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Paso Robles)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Silver “Takeoff” (Livermore)
Scenic Valley Ranch – 2022 Silver (Ramona Valley)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Bronze (Virginia)
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – 2023 Silver Cuvee St E (Paso Robles)
Del Valle Winery – 2021 Silver “RJM” (Livermore)
Cuda Ridge Wines – 2023 Gold “Mélange d’ Amis” (Livermore)
PEOPLE’S CHOICE JUDGES RESULTS:
The two Professional Judge’s tables are shown below:
People’s Choice Judges (L to R- Steve Besst, Joanne Miller, Gary Miller)
People’s Choice Judges (L to R-Holger Hornisch, Charles Luke, Chris Cox)
The Grand Sweepstakes winner from the People’s Choice Judges was the 2022 Donati Family Vineyards from Templeton, California. They also won Best of their Category ($51-$60), Double Gold Medals and Best of Show in the California Division!
Specialty Division: Best of Show: Pillitteri Estates 2022 Ice Wine
2024 Silver Crest Rosé – Bronze (Ohio)
2023 Silver Crest Rosé – Bronze (Ohio)
2024 Concannon Vineyards Rosé – Silver (Livermore)
2025 3 Steves Rosé – Silver (Livermore)
2022 Pillitteri Estates Appassimento – Gold (Canada)
2021 Pillitteri Estates Ice Wine – Double Gold (Canada)
Woo Girl Cellars Rosé – Bronze (Woodbridge)
International Division: Best of Show Corazon del Sol
2022 Corazon del Sol from Argentina – Double Gold
2022 Pillitteri Estates from Canada – Gold
Eastern Division: Best of Show 2022 Pollak Vineyards, Virginia
Pearmund Cellars – 2022 Silver (Virginia)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
Pollak Vineyards – 2022 Reserve Gold (Virginia)
Boundary Breaks – 2024 Silver (Finger Lakes)
Pollak Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
Stony Run Winery – 2020 Silver (Pennsylvania)
Central Division: 2021 Best of Show Silver Crest (Ohio)
Silver Crest Cellars – 2021 Gold (Ohio)
Northwest Division: Best of Show Spangler Cellars
Bitner Vineyards – 2021 Bronze (Idaho)
Barrage Cellars – 2023 Silver (Washington)
Hard Row to Hoe – 2023 Silver (Washington)
Alexandria Nicole Cellars – 2022 Silver (Washington)
Barrage Cellars – 2019 Silver (Washington)
Camaraderie Cellars – 2022 Silver Washington)
Pend d’ Oreillo Winery – 2022 Silver (Idaho)
Van Arum Vineyards – 2023 Bronze (Washington)
Roghani Vineyards – 2020 Gold (Idaho)
Spangler Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Southern Oregon)
Southwest Division: Best of Show Vivac Winery (New Mexico)
High Lonesome Vineyard – 2020 Silver (Arizona)
Vivac Winery – 2023 Gold (New Mexico)
California Division Overall: Best of Show 2023 Steven Kent Winery for L’Autre Côte
California Best of Category: $40 and less Almost Famous Wine 2023 “Loyal to the Soil” (Livermore)
Almost Famous Wine -2023 Double Gold Loyal to the Soil (Livermore)
Soquel Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Santa Cruz Mtns)
Omega Road Winery – 2021 Bronze (Livermore)
Cielo Sulla Terra Estate – Silver (Fairplay)
Concannon Vineyard – 2023 Reserve Silver (Livermore)
Frog’s Tooth Winery – 2024 Gold (grapes from Sonoma)
Del Valle Winery – 2022 Bronze (Livermore)
Almost Famous Wine – 2023 Silver/ Firepit Society (Livermore)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Almost Famous Wine – 2023 Gold / Strong Silent (Livermore)
Domenico Winery – 2021 Bronze (California)
Jeff Runquist Wines – 2024 Silver (grapes from Clarksburg)
Val du Vino Winery – 2022 Double Gold (grapes from Clement Hills)
Aloria Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Vallecito)
Prie Winery – 2023 Silver (Lodi)
California Category $41 to $50: Best of Category Garre Winery (Livermore)
Darcie Kent Winery – 2023 Gold Stone Patch (Livermore)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – 2021 Silver (Livermore)
Dracaena Wines – 2023 Silver (Paso Robles)
Darcie Kent Winery – 2023 Silver Lemmons (Livermore)
Garre Winery – 2022 Double Gold (Livermore)
Concannon – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Shale Canyon Wines – 2021 Silver (Monterey)
Cuda Ridge Wines – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
Concannon – 2023 Estate Gold (Livermore)
Arroyo Cellars – 2023 Silver (Livermore)
San Pasquel Winery – 2023 Gold (San Diego County)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Livermore)
Occasio Winery – 2021 Gold (Livermore)
McKenzie-Mueller Winery – 2021 Gold (Napa Valley)
3 Steves Winery – 2020 Gold (Livermore)
Sea Shell Cellars – 2022 Double Gold (Paso Robles)
California Category $51 to $60: Best of Category Donati Family Vineyards (Templeton)
Le Vigne Winery – 2022 Silver (Paso Robles)
Rosa Fierro Cellars – 2022 Silver (Livermore)
J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines -2023 Gold (Paso Robles)
Donati Family Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Templeton)
California Category $61 to $70: Best of Category McGrail Vineyards (Livermore)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Gold Ghielmetti (Livermore)
Titus Vineyards – 2023 Silver (St. Helena)
McGrail Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Livermore)
Selin Cellars – 2022 Gold (Windsor/Sonoma)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver Sachau (Livermore)
Hawk & Horse Vineyards – 2022 Silver (Lower Lake)
Burtech Family – 2023 Silver (San Diego/grapes from Alexander Valley)
Hawk & Horse Vineyards -2023 Silver (Lower Lake)
California Category $71 to $90: Best of Category Smith-Madrone Vineyards (Spring Mtn)
Smith-Madrone Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Spring Mtn)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Silver Culmination (Livermore)
Los Positas Vineyards – 2023 Gold (Livermore)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2022 Silver Culmination (Livermore)
Yates Family Vineyards – Silver (Mt Veeder/Napa Valley)
California Category $91 to $110: Best of Category Ledson Winery & Vineyards (Kenwood)
LXV Wines – 2023 Gold (Paso Robles)
Middle Oaks Wine – 2022 Gold (grapes from Coombsville)
Ledson Winery & Vineyards – 2022 Double Gold (Kenwood)
California Category $111 and up: Best of Category Mountain Terraces Winery & Vineyard (Moon Mtn/Glen Ellen)
Steven Kent Winery – 2023 Silver L’Autre Côte (Livermore)
Mountain Terraces Winery & Vineyard – 2019 Double Gold (Moon Mtn/Glen Ellen)
Blend Division: Best of Show 2023 Cuda Ridge “Mélange d’ Amis” (Livermore)
Justin Vineyards – 2022 Gold (Paso Robles)
Wood Family Vineyards – 2023 Silver “Takeoff” (Livermore)
Scenic Valley Ranch – 2022 Silver (Ramona Valley)
DuCard Vineyards – 2023 Silver (Virginia)
J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines – 2023 Gold Cuvee St E (Paso Robles)
Del Valle Winery – 2021 Silver “RJM” (Livermore)
Cuda Ridge Wines – 2023 Gold “Mélange d’ Amis” (Livermore)
A big shout out of appreciation to the 100 submitted wines to be evaluated and judged.
A very special thank you to both the judges and volunteers without which this event could not have happened!
No pictures of the volunteers who literally were on their feet all day running wine! A big hearty thanks!!
Susan Kelly
Celia Miller
Wendy Bendeer
Darlene Besst
Patty Powers
Two special shout outs: Due to a family emergency, Steve Besst stepped in and helped with the setup on both Monday and Tuesday. He also acted as the “clean up dump run & custodian”. Very much appreciated his assistance. The second is for Susan Kelly who took on gathering and securing all the food, non-alcoholic beverages and serving materials as she was acting for the group as CEO, Catering Executive for Ordering, in charge of obtaining food. Doing all this while occupied with family issue.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2016 LangeTwins Family Winery Cabernet Franc, Miller Vineyard
Background & Winery
Photo from LangeTwins website
One of the first wineries I visited in Lodi many years ago was LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyards in Acampo at 1525 E Jahant Rd, Acampo, CA. Their tasting room was spacious and filled with knowledgeable and friendly staff. Unique in that their wine offering lineup was extensive with many Italian varieties both common and uncommon which is always appreciated. More later in the winery section.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine captures many of the elements of a solid Cabernet Franc and showcases the “terroir” of the Clarksburg AVA. First on the eyes deep intriguing red coloring with medium-heavy viscosity. On the nose a definite “old world” aroma of dark cherry waft warmly in the senses. On the palate flavors of raspberries and strawberries swirl happily in the mouth. Secondary flavors of subtle pyrazines (bell pepper) and earthiness abound. At the end of each sip, a muscular and structured wine with character are noted. However, it is kept in check with mild and soothing tannins with a smooth finish of juicy fruits with a peppery note.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine was pulled to match up with a special at Verona18 with our Friday Night Wine & Dine group as I had a preview of the specials. The special I had decided on was a filet mignon with Blue cheese crumbles prepared medium rare. Earlier in the week, I and a few others had an opportunity to do some pre-work with Executive Chef Jaime Alderete and Food & Beverage Manager Edwarda Alderete on the Gourmet Cabernet Franc Dinner to be held April 18th at Copper Valley Golf Club Grandview Room. We spent time tasting various Cabernet Franc wines and tasting tidbits that would show both the wines and foods in the best light. Beaujolais sauce was prepared for a filet mignon steak bites for the gathering. When the special came out, I asked if adding the sauce would be available. What a wonderful treat. The meal also came with large jumbo prawns, mashed potatoes and vegetables.
The meal was delicious and the wine provided enough umph to cut through both the meat and sauce. A very good food and wine pairing. Next time I would ask for the Beaujolais sauce on the side as it was a bit too much yet tasted wonderful.
The Winery
Lange Twins Winery has several wine brands but the LangeTwins label features three skews in their offering. The first is their Single Vineyard series of wine reflecting specific and singular vineyard expressions. This is to highlight their “core competency” of farming to bring out the best characteristics as they state, “of land, the climate, the rootstock, and the farmer’s touch”. Today almost thirty wines are offered on their website including some of my favorites like Aglianico, Petite Sirah, Grüner Veltliner and Nero d’ Avola.
The other two labels are their Reserve, wines that are highly allocated and barrels being hand selected to bring out the highest quality of wine. The third is their Centennial label showcasing their 116-year-old Lewis Vineyard of Zinfandel.
Photo from LangeTwins website
The Lange family started farming in the region as emigrants in Lodi around 1870. Initially focused on watermelons and wheat. Then in the early 1900’s the family purchased a vineyard property. Their heritage and agrarian talents were continually transferred to father and son and bloomed with Randy and Brad Lange working the land and making premium wines.
Photo from LangeTwins website
Today their children all have significant roles in the company’s development and growth as fifth generation Lange family members from Marissa Lange as President of the Winery, Aaron Lange as President of Vineyards, Joseph Lange as International Sales Manager, Philip Lange, Vineyard/Winery Maintenance Director and Kendra Lange as Sustainability Manager. Truly a family affair!
If you are in Lodi and Acampo area, this should be the first winery to stop and visit to get an overall feel of the history, wide-ranging and quality of wines. And their hospitality is first class.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
7th Annual Cabernet Franc and Many Other Wine Varieties, Wine Stroll on March 28th
Wineries from Paso Robles, Livermore Valley, Napa Valley, Santa Cruz Mtns and Oregon are slated to attend. All these wineries have previous won Grand Sweepstakes, Best of Class, Gold or Double Gold at previous Cabernet Franc Competitions or SF Chronicle Wine Competition.
Hope to see you there!!
Slainte,
Michael Kelly
2020 Mineral Wines Cabernet Franc and The Winery is Relocated to Idaho!
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Brett Keller and his wife Andrea own Mineral Wines formerly located in Murphys, California. Brett started out in Hospitality Management but eventually went back to school earning his degree in Viticulture and Enology in 2003. When Brett and Andrea moved back to Angels Camp (Calaveras County), Brett took over management of Andrea’s family 4-acre Cherokee Creek Vineyard. Initially this property grew exclusively Merlot, but subsequently Brett grafted three acres of vineyard to Roussanne, Viognier and Petite Sirah. These are the main stay and define Mineral Wines. In addition, they produce Zinfandel, Malbec, and various Meritage blends, Tempranillo, Barbera, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in the Sierra foothills.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
More recently Brett and family moved to Eagle, Idaho. There he is amid setting up his new winery location, still being called Mineral Wines. He has established himself with local folks assisting in yearly crushes. While still having some varieties of grapes from the Sierra foothills, he has begun making Idaho based wines, specifically Malbec and Syrah. In 2022 he made a Tempranillo, Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blend all from the Snake River Valley. The most recent vintage is his 2023 Syrah and a Merlot from a local vineyard just outside of Eagle, Idaho. On their 10-acre estate in Eagle, they have completed their plans for the winery and are currently heading for permitting it to start in early Spring.
In a conversation with Brett one very interesting fact is that Idaho was declared the leading consuming state is the US by per capita by VinePair (https://vinepair.com/articles/map-states-drink-wine-america-2020/)
When they open their doors, Mineral Wines will hit the road at full speed with over 30 Gold and Double Medals to win the hearts and palates of those in Eagle Foothills AVA on the edge of Treasure Valley in Idaho.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2020 Mineral Wine Cabernet Franc is a deep crimson color on the eyes and medium viscosity. On the nose aromas of violets, black fruits and black cherry abound. On the palate, blackberry, cigar tobacco, balanced with a subtle vanilla spice presents a very drinkable Cabernet Franc. The finish has the typical pyrazine (green bell pepper) but it is in the background providing a smooth finish. The tannins are tame and enjoyable. Unfortunately, this was their last release as the vineyard where they were getting the grapes was ripped out.
Note on the label the Fluorite ‘Alien Eye’ with Aquamarine ‘lashes’ – Erongo Mountain, Namibia.
The current release of 2020 Mineral Wines Cabernet Franc, along with the limited release 20217 and 2019 vintages can be viewed at www.mineralwines.com and are available by calling Brett directly at 209-743-4100.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Pulled this wine from the cellar to pair with a wonderful “wintertime” comfort food this evening. It was Jalapeno Meat Loaf, perfect for a damp and rainy evening. Ingredients included panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced jalapeno peppers, minced garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, honey and chili powder. A slight change this evening was the addition of a modicum of Flatiron Pepper Company’s Hatch Valley Green pepper combination spice. It included Hatch Valley Green for bright chili flavor, Jalapeno for classic flavor and moderate heat and Habanero as an extra kicker! This provided the right amount of spice, flavor and heat to complete the meat loaf. Accompanied by a baked Russet potato and roasted Brussel sprouts drizzled with Balsamic.
The food and wine pairing was spectacular with the combination of spice in the meal and the fruit in the wine.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Two Dracaena Wines Cabernet Franc’s – 2019 Classic and 2021 Reserve, Both Are Winners!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
It is often stated that “success doesn’t come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently”. No truer words sum up what Dracaena Cabernet Franc has done over the last ten years! Seven years ago, at the first International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition, Dracaena won Best of Show (overall) with the Professional Judges. They have consistently won awards every year since and we are now beginning the 7th Annual event. In addition, they have won Gold, Double Gold at SF Chronicle, 93 points by Decanter, won top 30 picks of wines from Paso Robles and too many others to list here.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Michael & Lori Budd were the force behind getting December 4th on the calendar as International Cabernet Franc Day. Lori, besides having a food science background and a graduate degree from UC Davis in the winemaking program, is a published author, award winning blog writer and podcast producer/host for Exploring the Wine Glass.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2019 Classic wine came from the Plummer Vineyard in San Luis Obispo County. and it is described as filled with “aromas described as spice and plum. The long finish is framed by structure tannins”. A key point not to be lost is that this wine winning awards at the International Cabernet Franc Wine Competition comes from judges all from the northern California region. It shows the quality of their product and the impartiality of the judges. Ditto for the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition with judges from various regions. Competitions are blind tastings so truly their wines stand out!
The wine possessed a beautiful dark chocolate on the finish and solid defined tannins. The 2019 Classic had eight percent Petit Verdot providing both great coloring and body to the wine. The current Classic vintage is 2023 and goes for $42/bottle.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2021 Reserve is 100% Cabernet Franc from the Plummer Vineyard. This wine fills the olfactory senses with dark fruits from the first smell. What follows are black cherry and dark chocolate. The finish is softer and mellower than the Classic but providing enormous mouth filling enjoyment. The current vintage is the 2023 Metz Vineyard Reserve and is priced at $55/bottle.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired this evening with seasoned and seared ribeye steak. Seasoned with applewood salt, mesquite seasoning, Woodfired garlic seasoning and Flatiron Pepper Company Hatch Valley Green (Hatch Green Chile, Jalapeno and Habanero peppers). Seared at 1500 degrees and served medium rare. Accompanied by fresh sauteed green beans and short and long brown rice (not shown).
A beautiful food and wine pairing. The 2019 Classic Dracaena Cabernet Franc with its stronger tannins interacted with the meat to soften the fat for a smooth flavor. The fruit of 2019 also helped in surrounding some of the heat from the spices.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Dracaena Wines is in Paso Robles with a tasting room located at 1244 Pine Street Suite 101B, in downtown Paso Robles. This is a dog friendly and comfortable setting to sip and interact with Lori and/or Mike on their wines. They currently produce, besides their two Cabernet Franc wines, Chenin Blanc, Rosé, Picpoul, Blanc de Franc and Cinnabari (a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cab Franc and 5% Merlot). I have tasted all but the Picpoul and each of the wines are delicious and solid representation of the varietal or blend.
A portion of their tasting room in Paso Robles Photo ©Michael Kelly
Previously I wrote a story comparing Dracaena Wines as a David verses Goliath story as a small winery making a big mark in the industry.
https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2020/01/14/dracaena-wines-a-david-verses-goliath-story/
This small boutique winery is definitely getting noticed besides their Cabernet Franc awards, they have also won at the 2022 Los Angeles Invitational Wine and Spirits Challenge a Gold Medal and Best of Show for their Chenin Blanc.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2023 CULMINATION Cabernet Franc a Cut Above and for Discerning Cab Franc Drinkers!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
The word culmination is defined by the “end point or final stage of something you’ve been working toward or something that’s been building up”. Synonyms are apex, climax, peak, pinnacle, summit or zenith. Wood Family Vineyards, having made dozens upon dozens of award-winning wines, decided to launch a second label in 2024. The second label is the culmination of intense understanding of the vineyard management, grape harvesting, production techniques, barrel choices and wines their customers desired. Simply stated the culmination of decades of intense knowledge and experience was more than appropriate to call the new label CULMINATION!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
So why this new label and offering? Often a second label is the function of selecting grapes from a particular row in the vineyard, special barrels, pricing profiling or aging considerations. From conversations with Harrison Wood VP and Rhonda Wood the winemaker, the second label is much more than augmenting their current production. The CULMINATION label is reserved for a complete selection process and techniques producing some of the same varieties they produce at Wood Family Vineyards with extraordinary attention to detail. For example, their Wood Family Vineyards award-winning Cabernet Franc (Gold Medal, Double Gold Medals, etc.) come 100% from the One Oak Vineyard.
The previous CULMINATION Cabernet Franc came from two different vineyards. This year all the grapes were harvested from their estate vineyard.
Their intention is to introduce an elevated experience beyond their current offering and tasting room enjoyment. The CULMINATION wines will be targeted at wine connoisseurs and those wanting a more intimate experience with possible food pairings like their sunset dinners with CULMINATION WINES this year, called the CULMINATION Experience in the vineyard that was recently held.
The Wine – “Wine is bottled Poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
As mentioned earlier, this wine is from their estate vineyard in Livermore. 82% came from their original vineyard One Oak and the remaining 18% came from their second planting on their estate. The 2023 Cabernet Franc provides a truly remarkable flavor profile of Old-World verses California Cabernet Franc meeting. Many California Cabernet Franc wines are dark, robust, bold and earthy. French Cabernet Franc wines are typically elegant with softer, silker tannins. CULMINATION Cabernet Franc pulls these two contrasting flavor profiles and presents them united in the same bottle. A great analogy for this wine is a gymnast on a balance beam requiring both grace and strength in a routine.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
On the eyes the core center of the glass being an enticing dark color and medium viscosity. On the nose, violets and dark fruits waft into the senses. I did notice that having left it open for an hour, more aromas were present. On the palate, here the gymnast analogy comes into play with not brutish force stating “take notice of me” but underlying structure and finesse coming into play. Dark fruit of raspberries and blackberries with a tinge of blueberries developed a full and complete play in the mouth. The finish was intriguing with initially soft and rounded tannins then developing into robust and stately tannins. There was also a flinty and minerality presence at the conclusion. The wine really is a food companion wine with its strong tannins. This wine is for serious and discerning imbibers of Cabernet Franc. This is your California Cabernet Franc without training wheels!
At the 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition, their initial 2022 CULMINATION Cabernet Franc took a Gold Medal from the Professional Judges.
For the 2023 Culmination Cabernet Franc only 150 cases were produced. It is scheduled to be released in December 2025 at $80/bottle and at 14% alcohol.
The barrel treatment was 32% new French oak and most of the balance used French oak. It was aged in barrels for 19 months. One of the unique characteristics of this wine will be its ability to be aged 10-15 years in my opinion.
This wine just made my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for 2025 with its fruit and robust tannins hitting my precise target!
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired this evening with seared and BBQ’ed filet mignons to medium rare and topped with Blue Cheese, butter and chive dollop. Accompanied by sliced Russet potato wedges, seasoned and baked with Parmesan cheese. Also sauteed mushrooms and steamed broccoli. The food and wine pairing were excellent with the full dark fruit of the wine enveloping the meat and tannins cutting through the rich meat. The strong tannins stood up to the meat and the mushrooms enhanced the earthiness; a key characteristic found in Cabernet Franc.
I look forward to tasting it again at the formal release in December 2025.
Sláinte,
Michael
2019 Brick Barn Estate “Fatalist” Cabernet Franc – A Real Treat This Week
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Background
This wine won so many awards at the 5th Annual International Cabernet Franc (2024) it was remarkable! First, they won Best of Category ($101 and up) as well as Double Gold Medals by the Professional Judges. The People’s Choice Judges also awarded it Double Gold Medals, Best of Category, Best of Show for California Cabernet Franc wines and Grand Sweepstakes for all divisions. While Brick Barn had submitted in prior competitions with their regular Cabernet Franc winning many awards, this is truly a remarkable feat for this first-time entry of Fatalist Cabernet Franc!!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Santa Ynez Valley AVA
Map from https://carrwinery.com/
The AVA is unique to California as it is a long, east-west valley with both cool and warm climates. This allows for a range of varieties to be grown from Pinot Noir closer to the ocean breezes/fog to Cabernet Franc/Sauvignon to the eastern regions. Many Rhone grape varietals also have thrived in this versatile appellation such as Syrah, Grenache, Mourvedre, Roussanne and Viognier.
The Winery
Norman and Kathleen Williams started with a vision for his 40 acres acquired in 1968. Today the property, Buell Ranch, has expanded to 1,060 acres with 35 acres planted in vineyards. Their inaugural wines were produced from the 2015 vintage, and they opened the tasting room in 2018. For a “more recent winery” they have garnered a real presence in Santa Ynez Valley.
Their “terroir” is unique being between the Pacific Ocean (only 10 miles away) and the warmer inland valley. This allows both the cool marine elements of morning fog and breezes to co-mingle with the warmth of the summer months. The net effect is ripening steadily and closing down for evening, producing great natural acidity and layers of structure/complexity for the grapes.
Picture from Brick Barn Estate Winery
The winemaker is Adrian Bolshoi who upholds the vineyards “non-invasive farming practices” that allow the vineyards to speak for and show their distinct personalities. Thus, minimal interventions are the hallmark of their wines. They use a variety of vessels in the making of their wines, including neutral oak barrels, new oak barrels, oak puncheons, stainless steel, and concrete. The reason being to highlight each wine’s fermentation process, which expresses the varietals full characteristics.
Today their award-winning white wines include Chardonnay (various), Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Vermentino and Viognier. Their red wines include Cabernet Franc (& a Reserve), Grenache, Pinot Noir (various), Rhone Blend and Syrah. Additionally, they produce their Fatalist label featuring the finest barrels and tedious management and craftsmanship. Those wines in the Fatalist lineup include Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah.
For both the standard and Fatalist offerings the awards are too numerous to list and can be found at:
https://www.brickbarnwineestate.com/wines/accolades/
“Fatalistic” can be conjectured as an odd name, but indeed it comes from the word “fate”. The meaning of fate from Oxford Dictionary “is the development of events beyond a person’s control, regarded as determined by a supernatural power”. Fatalistic is someone who shows a belief in fate and feels they cannot control events or stop them happening. While the vineyards may help the quality of the grapes determined by their location, I do think Adrian Bolshoi plays a major role in the outcome of this wine as winemaker! So perhaps “pseudo-Fatalistic” would more aptly describe this wine?
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
They first introduced the Fatalist Cabernet Franc with their 2017 vintage. The 2019 is now their second release. First on the eyes a deep royal purple and maroon coloring and medium-heavy viscosity. On the nose dark cherry and then bursts into the olfactory senses with floral aromas of violets and fresh roses quickly following. On the palate upon the first sip, the dark cherries spring forth with an appropriate amount of fruit, cedar and a faint vanilla pipe tobacco and rhubarb. The finish provides stately pedigree tannins but come across with a velvety presence. The result being an extremely smooth and balanced wine! Perhaps one of the most graceful finishes from recent memory.
Only two barrels of this exquisite wine were produced using Russian oak. It is listed at $180/bottle and comes in a remarkable low 13.6% alcohol content for such a big and bold flavor. This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for 2025 (out in December).
The 2020 vintage is their current release.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Paired this evening with a marinated Tri tip steak for twelve hours in Chaka then seared and BBQ’ed to medium. The steak was also seasoned before BBQ-ing with Flatiron Pepper Company’s Dark and Smoky spice combining Chipotle, Ancho and Habanero flakes. Accompanied by halved small seasoned and roasted potatoes and a fresh garden salad with bacon, cherry tomatoes and green onions. A wonderful food and wine pairing this week!
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
Two Fun Instagram Reels
I recently have done two wine stories but these two were especially fun to put together. For those who aren’t on Instagram or don’t follow me there, thought It would be nice to put the link on the website!
First is the one on Oakville East “Franc ‘N Stern” ( a play on Elliot’s last name Stern) with his 2016 Cabernet Franc. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPUKE_pCTf7/?igsh=NGx3dDIxN2lrem1z
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The second on is on Wood Family Vineyards and their upcoming new release of “Against the Grain” Bourbon barrel aged wine. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DPKhly9AYc7/?igsh=NXE3ZXduMDZya3Jt
Photo ©Michael Kelly
You can generally find after each story on the website an Instagram Reel.
Enjoy and Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2016 Oakville East “Franc ‘n Stern” Cabernet Franc Perfect for October (and anytime)!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The Winery
Elliot Stern Pouring at the 5th International Cabernet Franc Wine Stroll Photo ©Michael Kelly
The name Franc ‘N Stern is intriguing as is Elliot Stern, owner, who has called his Cabernet Franc, Franc ‘N Stern since the introduction. I met Elliot many, many years ago and went through his lineup of wines at his kitchen table. I immediately enjoyed his Cabernet Sauvignon and the Cabernet Franc. I have always kept both in the cellar as “trophy wines”. The Franc ‘N Stern Cab Franc is an easily remembered name and his wine notes are whimsical and play on the “Frankenstein” theme. His notes alone are price worthy. Currently besides their Cabernet Franc, he produces two distinct Cabernet Sauvignons (Exposure and Double H Ranch) and a red wine blend. He has previously scored 94 points from Wine Enthusiast for his Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon Exposure. Marie-Laure Ammons, originally from France is the head winemaker at Oakville East.
The Wine “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The wine is extremely dark purple and magenta colored with crimson red hues. On the nose, dark fruits, violets, soft pipe tobacco, dark chocolate and fresh ground black pepper. On the palate, spices, including reclusive pyrazines (bell pepper taste), along with blackberries swarm the mouth with enticing and vibrant flavors. Rounded velvety tannins provide a medium long finish. With Marie-Laure coming from France, this is a very smooth wine combining both the old world and new world Cabernet Franc wine making skills.
Photo ©Michael Kelly
This wine is 90% Cabernet Franc and adds 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. As Elliot states in his humorous notes, “IT’S ALIVE, IT’S ALIVE!! This wine retails for $100 and is worth every penny. This wine will make my annual list of Best Wines Tasted for calendar year 2025.
Sláinte,
Michael Kelly
2021 Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery Cabernet Franc – An Immediate Winner!
Background
Photo ©Michael Kelly
At the 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition, Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery entered their first ever Cabernet Franc. It was placed in the $71-$85 category for California Cabernet Franc wines. Two different sets of judges rated their wine. From the disciplined Professional Judges they received a Gold Medal. From the People’s Judges they received both a Gold Medal and Best of Category for their price range. An excellent result from their first release of Cabernet Franc!
Stuart on the left and Charlie on the right Photo ©Michael Kelly
I had the privilege of meeting with Stu and Charlie Smith in August of 2024. An encounter which is paramount in my wine experiences. For the full story on the meeting and topics discussed you can read more at: https://californiawinesandwineries.com/2024/08/14/smith-madrone-vineyards-paradise-found/ . It was at this meeting that I mentioned the upcoming 6th Annual International Cabernet Franc Competition and they were very interested in entering their first vintage.
The Winery
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Smith-Madrone Vineyards is located on 200 acres on top of Spring Mountain west of St. Helena with 38 acres planted in vineyards. The vineyard elevation ranges from 1,300 to 2,000 feet. The founder, managing partner and enologist is Stuart Smith, Charles Smith is the winemaker, and the associate winemaker is François Bugué. Truly a family affair! All the wines are estate and dry-farmed on top of the mountain. Currently their production is approximately 6,000 cases a year. They produce Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon and their iconic Cooks Flat (blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc) and a recently released Cabernet Franc.
Their wealth of knowledge about winemaking, Napa Valley varieties, Napa Valley politics (which there are plenty), and the history of Napa Valley is astonishing. I can only compare it to me with a paint by numbers canvas talking to Michelangelo when he was painting the Sistine Chapel. While both being very knowledgeable, they were matter of fact humbly quiet and with a great sense of humor!
The Wine – “Wine is bottled poetry” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Photo ©Michael Kelly
A quick background on Cabernet Franc in Napa Valley. Per the USDA California Errata to the Grape Crush Report Crop Year 2024 (dated August 25, 2025), Napa Valley crushed 3,682 tons of Cabernet Sauvignon. A small pittance compared to the 78,562 tons of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes crushed. In California as a whole Cabernet Franc represented only .003% of the grapes crushed for 2024. Whereas Cabernet Sauvignon represented 15.5%. Many do not understand the resurgence of Cabernet Franc commanding an average price of $5,206/per ton vs Cabernet Sauvignon’s average price of $2,186/per ton. Cabernet Franc, while small in comparison to tonnage crushed, its price is more than double that of Cabernet Sauvignon. Cabernet Sauvignon may be King of the varieties, but maybe Cabernet Franc should be the one wearing the crown!
Photo ©Michael Kelly
The 2021 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Franc comes from their vineyards that have been “pruned, cultivated and harvested in the same manner, creating wines of distinction and complexity” per Stuart. The wine is 89% Cabernet Franc and 11% Cabernet Sauvignon coming in at 14.7% alcohol. The wine spent 18 months in 60% new French oak barrels slumbering to perfection!
This Cabernet Franc on the eyes is dark and intriguing beckoning the imbiber to come closer and partake of a sip. On the nose, aromas of violets and pepper are dominant wafting into the senses. On the palate, medium weight and creamy (not taste), but a texturally sensation in the mouth. Black cherries are the primary and first flavor that springs forth. Secondary flavors of smooth blueberries surround the palate with joyous “chanting”. On the finish, green fruit is not noticeably (pyrazine characteristics) but silky smooth and caressing tannins catch your attention for a tasty conclusion to each sip.
Smith-Madrone Vineyards produced only 153 cases compared to their world famous dry Riesling of 1,087 cases. The current release of 2021 will not be available long and listed on their website for $85/bottle.
On my previous visit to Smith-Madrone I was able to taste it prior to being released. Now having more than a taste, this wine will now make my Annual Best Wines Tasted in the calendar year. This now gives Smith-Madrone two for 2025.
The Food and Wine Pairing – “Food without wine is a corpse; wine without food is a ghost. United and well matched, they are as body and soul: living partners” – Andre Simon
Photo ©Michael Kelly
Chose this wine specifically to pair with a seared (1500 degrees) and BBQ’ed ribeye steak to medium rare. Accompanied by a Yukon potato and sauteed Brussel sprouts with mushrooms slices. An excellent treat with the wine and steak being paired beautifully this evening.
I can hardly wait to taste their second vintage of Cabernet Franc!
Sláinte,
Michael