Tasting Notes 2/28/14

NCWC “CAB vs CAB” TASTING EVENT, 2/28/14

LANG & REED CABERNET FRANC 2011
“The aromatics clearly shout Cab Franc with herbs and white cherry fruit mingling with typical Franc floral characteristics. On the palate, savory and tarragon combine with floral essence buttressed with dried cherry and currant fruit flavors. The gentle tannins are nicely punctuated by lively acid, which lead into a finish that is fresh and mouthwatering.” 88 points Jim. $22.97

BARBOURSVILLE CABERNET FRANC 2011
The pepper notes that are common in Cab Franc are subtle here, while the red berry flavors take center stage. Wisps of caramel and fig add complexity, while the 14 months spent in French oak never overwhelm the smooth approach and tantalizing finish. 88 points Jim. $24.97

BEAUCANON CABERNET FRANC 2006
For what is often considered a feminine grape, the aromas here are dark and rich; black and blueberry fruit, cocoa, smoky tea and toasty oak, with touches of lavender and minerals. On the palate, the fruit takes over, a riot of red and black berries dominating with savory oak and dark earth and cocoa flavors showing around the edges. Tannins are gripping but smooth, and the trademark acidity of Cab Franc is also smoothed down to just a tang. 90 points Bill. $23.97

MADDALENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
Moving to Cabernet Sauvignon now, this fine example from Paso Robles shows ripe red fruit, including raspberry, plum, and spicy black cherry. Barrel aging contributes notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak spice. The mouth is round with a rich, silky texture that is framed by soft tannins. 90 points Wine Enthusiast. $13.97

YARDSTICK CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2011
This Cab hails from the Ruth’s Reach Vineyard in Napa Valley. Notice the aromas of chocolate and butterscotch which compliment ripe cherry and red berry fruit. Black cherry and raspberry flavors decorate the round palate, bolstered by full yet soft tannins. Caramel, oak, and strawberry notes add complexity to the finish. 89 points Jim. $19.97

CASARENA CABERNET SAUVIGNON RESERVA 2011
Now to Argentina for this beauty. “Restrained but pure aromas of blackcurrant, bitter chocolate, mocha and peppery herbs. Dense, deep, and seamless, with berry flavors accented by pepper and herbs. Classic, satisfying and complete cabernet, with a lush, round texture, excellent breadth and length, and very suave, fine-grained tannins. This could do some damage in a blind flight of top Napa cabernets. A steal at the price.” 92 points Stephen Tanzer. $15.97

LANCASTER CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
Now to Alexander Valley. “The fruit is explosive, a blast of cherry and blueberry, tamped down by the tannins so it tastes ripe but not over the top. The fruit richness lasts, spiced by the tannins into an elegant length. Delicious to decant now and well suited to aging.” 93 points Wine & Spirits. $49.97