Matthiason Cabernet Franc
Napa is synonymous with big, bold, beastly reds, be it Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel and the like. If I told you it’s possible to create a delicately complex, ethereal and beguiling Cabernet Franc reminiscent of Chinon but with Napa’s sense of terroir, would you believe me? Well in fact it does exist. Here is a prime example - Matthiasson Family Vineyards.
The Mattiassons are renowned as craftsmanship winemakers however they are farmers and environmentalists to the core. “Winemaking, for us, is a natural extension of farming.” Sustainable and organic practices are a way of life. The wines are classical representation of what the grape should be and shines where it’s grown. Their wines are complex yet refreshing, moderate alcohol and lovely with food. For Napa, that’s a big deal. To have all of those elements so controlled in a warm climate says a lot about these winemakers. They are in a league of their own.
Matthiasson Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2018
Napa Valley, California
12.2%
2,220 bottles produced
This wine is sources from 10 rows in Western Oak Knoll area in Napa Valley. Dry farmed, organic with fruit trees at the end of each row. You have the Napa sunshine in the fruit flavors naturally shine, the minerality and herbal = a delicate yet powerfully aromatic wine with a long ethereal finish. This is a winemaker of the year winner multiple times over, natural farming practices and world class Cabernet Franc produced in very small quantities. Small open fermentation with 2 punch downs per day. 50% whole clusters in the fermentation followed by an ageing of 10 months in neutral oak.
Pours in the glass a medium ruby color with a garnet tinged rim.
Swirl and pretty, delicate aromas of fresh red berries (raspberry, strawberry), bell pepper, chili flakes, sage, earthy mineral assault the senses.
Sip and it’s just unbelievably light and dry on the palate. It’s full of red berries, red plums, grassy herbaceous, fine yet stalky medium tannins, medium+ acid and flavors cap off with sage, savory red pepper flakes, strong minerality finish that lasts a long time.
It’s easy drinking but super complex. Beguiling, ethereal, aromatic, powerful yet restrained its rare to find this type of wine in such a warm climate such as Napa Valley.
Pair with food 100% - Roasted Herb (oregano, sage and black pepper) Cornish Hens, Grilled Rosemary Lamb Burgers or Chicken stuffed with goat cheese and thyme.
