Ironstone Cabernet Franc 2004 – California
Cost: $5.99/half-bottle (Full bottle at about $10)
I’m still dealing with a mild head cold and sinus congestion— taking the day off to rest and load up on the Sudafed; it helps clear the nasal passages. I know I shouldn’t be drinking, but a balanced meal always includes a glass of wine. I’ve been going to the local wine shops and pretty much snapping up their half bottle selections— I enjoy venturing into new wine territories and finding a decent value is always great. This one is a cabernet franc, commonly used as a blending grape in small percentages to add complexity (most often to a wine made of cabernet sauvignon), so it’s nice to see a small handful of producers making wine of the adjunct grape. Cabernet franc, if done right, reveals a subtle vegetal/green spice, and it can be quite difficult to harness that on its own— but the Kautz family, who produce the Ironstone Cab Franc, seems to have gotten the recipe quite right. Notes of roasted cherry and red berries are promising and with just a touch of sage and green leaf to make the wine interesting. It’s silky and slightly watery in texture, perhaps its only fault, as the mid-palate is quite light and lackluster. But for the price, it’s a pretty good value and certainly has enough in it to capture your attention. And then you sip again… Sweet!
Rating: 86
Tags: CABERNET FRANC, CELLAR NOTES, WINE
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