Tasting Notes For Friday, 6/8/12

NCWC FRANK FAMILY WINE TASTING, 6/8/12

 FRANK FAMILY BLANC DE BLANCS

            When movie and tv executive Rich Frank bought a Napa winery in 1992, it ended up being a continuation of the phenomenal success Rich enjoyed in Hollywood.  “Cheers” was one of the big hits he had his fingerprints on, and this is a perfect Bubbly to toast with.  Made from 100% Napa Valley Chardonnay, it’s bold, delightfully rich, and has a long finish.  $37.97.

 FRANK FAMILY CHARDONNAY 2010

            Another of Rich’s hits was “Family Ties,” which is fitting given that three members of the Frank Family are closely involved in the winery.  With their Chard, “aromas of apple, pear, vanilla, caramel, orange blossom, quince, and hazelnut explode from the glass. Rich and fresh on the palate, the wine exhibits bright fruit, lemon drop, baked apple pie, and has a smooth, creamy mouthfeel, and long finish.” 90 points Wine Spectator. $27.97.

 FRANK FAMILY PINOT NOIR 2010

            “Entertainment Tonight” was yet another of his projects, and this wine will make for an entertaining night, indeed.  It “opens with aromas of dried black cherries, cinnamon spice and sweet oak notes. A subtle scent of forest floor and lavender evokes the cool, foggy mornings typical of their Carneros vineyard, giving this wine a sense of place. The palate is round and bursts with fleshy plum. Fine grain tannins offer elegant structure and persistence.”  $29.97.

 FRANK FAMILY ZINFANDEL 2009

            Remember “Taxi?”  It’s both a Rich Frank hit and something you might want to call after a bottle or two of this.  “Aromas of raspberries, plums, leather, brown sugar and white pepper lead to flavors of sweet plum and caramel, balanced with silky tannins, earthiness and a kick of spice and acidity.”  $29.97.

 FRANK FAMILY CABERNET 2008

            How about “Home Improvement?”  Another big hit, and this Cab will improve any home.  “Generous aromas of dark chocolate, black cherry and spice which are layered with dusty cedar and loam. The palate is vibrant and concentrated; bursting with ripe black cherries, plum, currant and blackberry which are balanced with well structured tannins providing a lasting grip while maintaining a refined elegance.”  90 points Wine Spectator.  $39.97.

 FRANK FAMILY RESERVE CABERNET 2008

            Rich’s biggest animated hit was “The Lion King,” and this beauty might well be called the Cabernet King.  “The nose opens with ripe black cherries, plums and nutmeg while a note of sage gives a sense of freshness. On the palate, intense and persistent fruit flavors intertwine with firm tannins, then dissolve into a soft velvety finish that can only be described as luscious.”  95 points Wine Advocate.  $74.97.