{"title":"Cabernet Franc","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"bernard-baudry-chinon-la-croix-boissee-loire-france-2019","title":"Bernard Baudry, Chinon Rouge \"La Croix Boissée\" Loire, France, 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBernard Baudry is unquestionably one of Chinon’s most outstanding producers. Not only does he have the talent to make delicious and consistent wines, vintage to vintage, but he is also fortunate to have vineyard land that showcases the varied soil types of the appellation. After completing his viticultural studies in Beaune, Bernard returned to the Loire Valley and purchased his first two hectares of land in Cravant-les-Coteaux, a village from which almost half of the production of A.O.C. Chinon is sourced. Over the years, the domaine has grown to 25 hectares and Bernard’s son, Matthieu, has joined the family domaine. The Baudrys are staunch traditionalists, and you would have a hard time finding a Chinon more classic than theirs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBernard Baudry\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCabernet Franc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLoire, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA complex, powerful wine with firm tannins, unctuous, with aromas of very ripe fruit. A wine that will benefit from being laid down for several years to reveal its full potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe reds, though not quite as spicy as the 2018s, are generous and redolent of red fruit and violets. The savory character of the 2019 reds seduced us from the onset. The tannins are well-integrated, and the wines are remarkably balanced.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - CT\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merchant of Wine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44291512074545,"sku":"","price":52.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Bernard_Baudry_Chinon_Rouge_La_Croix_Boissee_Loire_France_2019.jpg?v=1762530268"},{"product_id":"charles-joguet-chinon-les-petites-roches-loire-france-2020","title":"Charles Joguet, Chinon “Les Petites Roches”, Loire, France, 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA family property located in the heart of the Val de Vienne, the Charles Joguet estate extends over 30 ha planted with Cabernet Franc and 2 ha with Chenin Blanc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"rte-setting section--rte overlap__rte\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA forerunner of the parcel-based approach in Chinon, from the end of the 1950s, the vineyards, spread out on both banks of the Vienne, express the rich diversity of terroirs that the Chinon appellation offers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the beginning of the 1980s, Charles Joguet worked to perpetuate the work he had done to build up the estate and decided to surround himself with men of complementary skills, to whom he could gradually hand over the key to the winery to devote himself once again to painting and sculpture.\u003cbr\u003eIn 1985, the Genet family joined forces with Charles and contributed their land in Beaumont-en-Véron (Silènes) as well as a small hectare of vines planted on the pretty hillside of\u003cbr\u003eMonplaisir (Clos Monplaisir) in Chinon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1997, Charles Joguet took his leave of the wine industry to devote himself entirely to his other work, his other unquenched passion: painting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA family property, it is a team of 6 people that surrounds Jacques Genet, Kevin Fontaine (vineyard \u0026amp; wine) and Anne-Charlotte Genet (marketing) today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eKevin Fontaine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eCabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLoire, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe great classic of Chinon with rillettes, rillons, poultry or fresh goat's cheese. \u003cspan\u003eThe cuvée Les Petites Roches, with its predominantly clayey and moderately chalky slopes and plateaus, offers wines with red fruit aromas and a nice mineral structure, to be enjoyed within five years of the vintage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"w-full pt-4\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePretty nose with plums, black currants, blueberries and stones with smoked paprika undertones. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins and fresh acidity. Precise and well-crafted with harmonious structure. Succulent with some sour cherries and red currant at the center and a flavorful, developing finish. From organically grown grapes. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCrafted from vines planted on clay, calcareous soils, the 2020 Chinon Les Petites Roches possesses a delicate, fresh bouquet of violet, dark berries and spices. Medium-bodied, layered and elegant, with a juicy core of fruit, it’s long and lively. More structured than Silènes, it also has bright acids and a longer mid-palate, concluding with a mouthwatering, ethereal finish. A great effort.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Merchant of Wine","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44291522560305,"sku":"","price":29.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Charles_Joguet_Chinon_Les_Petites_Roches_Loire_France_2020.jpg?v=1762530273"},{"product_id":"stormy-weather-wandering-star-cabernet-franc-napa-valley-california-2016","title":"Stormy Weather, 'Wandering Star' Cabernet Franc, Napa Valley, California, 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAs an indication of his commitment to uncompromising quality, Cameron insists that he would never release a wine that did not have Stormy Weather quality, and he's skipped a vintage before when that was the case.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"Stormy Weather\" has a lot of meanings for Cameron. Yes, the first spark of an idea for the name did come from his life-long love of listening to Billie Holliday singing the song of the same name. Cameron explained that it also describes his life, his relationship with his brother, the twists of fate in winemaking, and life itself. Cameron's brother Jayson is the founder of the prestigious Hundred Acre winery, where Cameron got his feet wet in the wine world. Some brotherly competition is to be expected.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCameron Woodbridge\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNapa Valley, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eA deep ruby color with aromas of blackberries and blueberries and hints of fresh cut summer flowers. Flavors of red currents and spice with hints of toasted oak and grilled red meat. Bright ripe blackberries, graphite and spice through the mid-pallet with a long finish of crème brulée.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eProduced from 100% Cabernet Franc, coming from Oakville, the 2016 Cabernet Franc Wandering Star spent 30 months in French oak barrels, 80% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, it gives up a pretty floral perfume of red roses and lavender over a core of rasp-berry pie, wild blueberries and Morello cherries with hints of pencil shavings and forest floor. The full-bodied palate delivers taut, muscular red and blue fruit preserves with a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone, finishing long with impressive elegance and sophistication. 194 cases were made.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAnticipated maturity: 2021-2041\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced from 100% Cabernet Franc, coming from Oakville, the 2016 Cabernet Franc Wandering Star spent 30 months in French oak barrels, 80% new. Deep garnet-purple in color, it gives up a pretty floral perfume of red roses and lavender over a core of raspberry pie, wild blueberries and Morello cherries with hints of pencil shavings and forest floor. The full-bodied palate delivers taut, muscular red and blue fruit preserves with a firm, grainy texture and a lively backbone, finishing long with impressive elegance and sophistication. 194 cases were made.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48340810563889,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/StormyWeather_WanderingStarCabernetFranc_NapaValley_California_2016.jpg?v=1708271839"},{"product_id":"domaine-de-pallus-messanges-rouges-chinon-loire-france-2021","title":"Domaine de Pallus, Messanges Rouges, Chinon, Loire, France, 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eNote: Once this vintage runs out, we will move onto the next one.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBertrand Sourdais made a name for himself at Spain's upstart Dominio de Atauta, before returning to his family estate in Cravant-les-Côteaux in the heart of the Chinon appelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 2010, seven years after taking the reins, Bertrand began reducing yields and converting the vineyards to biodynamic practices. This was coupled with changes in the cellar such as longer macerations and élévage to capture the true personality of Chinon and his beloved Cabernet Franc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flagship cuvée \"Les Pensées\" represents a blend of the estate's soils, combining fruit from limestone and clay for aromatics, heavier clay for power, and sand for finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore the age of 30, Chinon-native Bertrand Sourdais had already made an impressive name for himself at Spain’s upstart, Dominio de Atauta. It was his first post at the helm, following stints at Mouton-Rothschild in Bordeaux, Santa Rita in Chile, and with Alvaro Palacios in Priorat. His work and experience at Atauta, discovering a new terroir of remote ancient, ungrafted vines far away from the heart of the Ribeira del Duero appellation, gave him many invaluable lessons. The most important of these was the need to think critically about every single step in the viticulture and winery work, being careful to honor tradition, and sometimes question it, and to avoid mistakes often made by a more standard and modernist approach. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy 2003, Bertrand was determined to return to France and take up the challenge of his beloved Cabernet Franc. His family estate, Domaine de Pallus, is located in Cravant-le-Côteaux, in the heart of the appellation, and is blessed with some of Chinon’s choicest vineyards. With vines averaging over 45 years of age, Pallus held all the potential Bertrand could hope for. Taking what he had learned from Atauta, he began his quest to find the ultimate limit for Pallus and by 2010, conversion to biodynamic practices was underway. Additionally, he reduced yields to approximately 30 hl\/ha.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the cellar, Bertrand completely rethought the winemaking process. He employs an extended maceration of up to an thirty days, quite long by Loire Cabernet Franc standards, to capture the “true” personality of Chinon. Elévage is similarly long and gentle and primarily takes place in second passage barrels from elite Bordeaux estates. All in all, the wines are handled less, and bottled later, than almost any others in Chinon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessanges—Messanges is an old Loire Valley name for Cabernet Franc. Bertrand is using this line for a Red and Rosé from his younger vines. Vinified for immediate accessibility, they are the perfect introduction to the Pallus style.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBertrand Sourdais\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChinon, Loire, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMessanges is an old Loire Valley name for Cabernet Franc. Domaine de Pallus reveals the charm and seductive character of Cabernet Franc. It has a floral and spicy character that pairs well with sausages and goat cheeses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Elevage Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":49019256897841,"sku":null,"price":21.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/DomainedePallus_MessangesRouges_Chinon_Loire_France_2021.jpg?v=1714329760"},{"product_id":"el-enemigo-gran-enemigo-el-cepillo-single-vineyard-mendoza-argentina-2018","title":"El Enemigo, Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Single Vineyard Mendoza, Argentina, 2018 (Cab Franc Blend)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" data-mce-style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Malbec\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMendoza, Argentina\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eEl Enemigo Gran Enemigo El Cepillo is a juicy and expressive red wine. The nose is exuberant, offering fruity aromas that are very well harmonised with the aromatic herbs and spices. The palate is medium to full-bodied with notable acidity and a subtle saline touch accompanying the fruit. An elegant, fresh and vibrant red with a flavoursome finish and excellent aging potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points -  Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe nose of the 2018 Gran Enemigo El Cepillo Single Vineyard, from a low-yielding and drier year, is full of curry, a note that was a constant across the three vintages I tasted together, but it tends to be stronger in low-yielding and dry years like this. It's also floral and comes through as aromatic and a little exotic, in a good way, with elegance, persistence and very pure flavors. It has fine-grained tannins, great acidity and balance. 7,200 bottles. All these single-vineyard bottlings mature in ancient 4,000-liter oak foudres for some 15 months.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePretty and inviting on the nose with gorgeous aromas of floral violet, cassis and completed with a lifted, delicate liquorice note. The palate is graced with deep herb, pepper, crunchy red fruit and graceful, silky tannins.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Tim Atkin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eAlejandro Vigil sources this 85\/15 cuvée of Cabernet Franc and Malbec from one the last vineyards at the southern end of the Uco Valley, located on a slope to reduce the frost risk. Racy, focused and beautifully defined, with chalky freshness and minerality, subtle graphite and mangetout notes and a plum and black cherry palate.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50249463529777,"sku":null,"price":124.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ElEnemigo_GranEnemigoElCepilloSingleVineyard_Mendoza_Argentina_2018.jpg?v=1759500252"},{"product_id":"realm-cellars-the-tempest-red-blend-napa-valley-california-2022","title":"Realm Cellars, The Tempest Red Blend, Napa Valley, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e'This blessed plot, this earth, this realm...' Immortal lines from William Shakespeare’s King Richard II, the source of Realm’s – and this wine’s – name. We’ve made this Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated blend since 2003, our tribute to the great wines of Bordeaux’s Left Bank. We consider The Bard to be the quintessential wine of Realm: a dense, weighty and concentrated wine that year in and year out showcases the very best Cabernet Sauvignon of Napa Valley. Beckstoffer To Kalon and Dr. Crane, Blair Vineyard, Weitz Vineyard, Fortuna Vineyard and Beckstoffer Orchard have all found a place in The Bard. While the composition of the wine varies from year to year, Cabernet Sauvignon typically comprises over 70% of the blend, joined by lesser percentages of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and\/or Petit Verdot.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRealm Cellars is a journey. Just eight years ago, the winery was nearly bankrupt when owner Scott Becker and winemaker Benoit Touquette teamed up to revive it. Fueled by a clear vision, an entrepreneurial spirit and relentless determination, they transformed Realm into one of the most electrifying domaines in Napa Valley today. Now with its own hillside Estate in the Stags Leap District, 50 acres of vines and access to a number of the finest vineyards in the appellation, Realm makes some of the most sought-after wines in Napa Valley.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaking wine at the very highest level is at the core of Realm Cellars. Since 2012, the wines have been awarded more 100-point scores from internationally recognized wine critics than any other producer in Napa Valley. The Realm portfolio includes both Single Vineyard wines and Proprietary Blends – collectively, the wines are equal parts an expression of the land and an articulation of the winemaking craft. The house style of Realm can best be described as a creative tension between richness and precision, density and finesse, purity of fruit and nuance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe next chapter of Realm Cellars promises to be just as bold. The vision for what Realm can be encompasses more than creating fine wines. This passionate team is ready to push ahead in its relentless quest to secure an enduring place among the icons of the wine world. The best is yet to come.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBenoit Touquette\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e67% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eNapa Valley, California\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2022 The Tempest is a blend of 67% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes skipping out of the glass with bright, cheery notes of black raspberries, mulberries, and kirsch, leading to hints of lavender, wild sage, and aniseed. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers bright, crunchy fruit with firm, fine-grained tannins and great tension, finishing on a lingering peppery note. This was bottled in March 2024.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e96 Points - The Wine Independent\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe 2022 The Tempest is a blend of 67% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 23% Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes skipping out of the glass with bright, cheery notes of black raspberries, mulberries, and kirsch, leading to hints of lavender, wild sage, and aniseed. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers bright, crunchy fruit with firm, fine-grained tannins and great tension, finishing on a lingering peppery note. This was bottled in March 2024.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50373860655409,"sku":null,"price":169.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Realm_Cellars_The_Tempest_Red_Blend_Napa_Valley_California_2022.jpg?v=1732653106"},{"product_id":"chateau-les-carmes-haut-brion-pessac-leognan-bordeaux-france-2016","title":"Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion, Pessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France, 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePatrice Pichet acquired the Carmes estate in late 2010. This investment had a hint of challenge about it, of course, but it was also driven by a genuine passion for wine harbouring the highest ambitions. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section templates\/block\/image-left-text-right.twig\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"image-and-text-wrapper\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"container image-and-text\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"row\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"col-sm-6\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"block-content right\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"record-content\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore taking over the estate, Patrice Pichet was an admiring neighbour. For many years, he enjoyed regular walks on the adjacent land before meeting the Chantecaille family in the early 2000s. That is when he discovered Carmes and fell instantly under its spell. The idea of purchasing a vineyard was not a new one, but this time it seemed an obvious choice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpert craftsmen Stéphane Derenoncourt and Guillaume Pouthier form a complementary duo on the estate, working together with the same passion devoted to enhancing the vineyard and giving Carmes its unique signature.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe new winery, designed by Philippe Starck and Luc Arsène-Henry, which opened in 2016, marked the start of a new era for the chateau. Combining art with state-of-the-art equipment, it embodies a new pursuit of excellence.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGuillaume Pouthier\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e41% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePessac-Léognan, Bordeaux, France \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAmong the classic elegance of Pessac-Léognan, the Carmes top wine has carved out its own niche. Unprecedented proportions of Cabernet Franc offer a silky power which is then supported by the intensity of Cabernet Sauvignon. Within this structure, Merlot develops rounded and refined fruitiness: balance is the order of the day, ensuring a style that is complex and delicious in equal measures.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section templates\/block\/slider.twig\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"slider slick-initialized slick-slider\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"slick-list draggable\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"slick-track\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2016 was a year of contrasts, starting with a mild and rainy winter followed by a spring which remained gloomy right up until late June. The growing cycle was delayed accordingly, but flowering occurred during a precious spell of dry weather which ensured that the fruit was plentiful and of consistent quality. Summer was exceptionally dry, with no rain on over 100 days throughout 2016, halting the growth of the vines in time for the grapes to mature perfectly. A welcome dose of rain in early September tempered this maturing process at just the right time, without sacrificing the concentration accrued over the hot, dry summer. Finally, a dry and mild start to the autumn gave us an exceptionally generous amount of room for manoeuvre when it came to selecting the right harvest dates. These conditions have combined to produce wines of rich colour and dazzling aromatic power, whose balance of tannins, acidity and smooth texture will make for both short-term pleasure and long-term joy.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eReaders looking for the next superstar in Bordeaux need to jump on the bandwagon of Les Carmes Haut-Brion, who have produced one of the wines of the vintage in 2016. The 2016 Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion checks in as a blend of 41% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot, and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon that hit 13.8% natural alcohol and spent 22 months in 65% new French oak. Its deep purple color is followed by a complex bouquet of high-class smoke tobacco, decaying flowers, charcoal, gravelly minerality and loads of sweet black and blue fruit. Possessing full-bodied richness, flawless integration of its acidity, fruit, and ultra-fine tannins, and a blockbuster finish, this is another 2016 that possess both power and elegance. Do your best to hide bottles for 5-7 years and it will keep for 3-4 decades. Don’t miss it. Tasted twice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - The Wine Cellar Insider\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe initial blast of crushed rock, salty tannins and pure, deep, red fruits is all it takes to get hooked here. The nose, with its smoky, cigar box, flowers, leafy herbs, wet earth and sweet cherry notes might have started the show, but it is the intensity and purity in the fruit on the palate, with the 50 second finish that makes it all work. This is a star in the making! I am pointing this out because even though this vintage seems to have doubled in price since we initially raved about it, for a wine of this quality, it is well worth the price. 99 Points\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eTerrific ripeness, depth and complexity on offer here. This has a very attractive array of bright, ripe blueberries and cassis with some leafy and earthy notes. The palate has a quite deep, long and vibrant array of perfectly ripe dark plums and blueberries. So good. Best vintage this decade. Try from 2023.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Vinous\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2016 Les Carmes Haut-Brion is consistent with previous bottles. It soars from the glass with those (to use a word I used last time) disarming array of blackberry, iris, and fig aromas, but displaying a little more blue fruit than I recall. The palate is very well balanced with a velvety texture, pure with just a hint of black pepper. Interestingly, the 65% whole bunches are barely noticeable, just a guiding hand that shapes the finish. Sapid yet tender, this is an outstanding Pessac-Léognan. Tasted from an ex-château bottle at the Icons of Bordeaux dinner at Legacy Records in New York.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2016 Les Carmes Haut-Brion is a blend of 41% Cabernet Franc, 39% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon aged in 65% new and 35% one-year-old oak for 22 months. This vintage represents one of the largest percentages of Cabernet Franc for this wine. Medium to deep garnet-purple colored, it gives notes of kirsch, black raspberries and black plums with touches of cassis, violets, chocolate box and pencil shavings. The palate is medium-bodied, firm, grainy and lively with loads of layers and a long, well-poised finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51010922709297,"sku":null,"price":299.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Les_Carmes_Haut-Brion_Pessac-Leognan_Bordeaux_France_2016.jpg?v=1742740967"},{"product_id":"chateau-du-hureau-saumur-champigny-tuffe-france-2022","title":"Château du Hureau, Saumur-Champigny Tuffe, Saumur, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Chateau du Hureau vineyard spreads over about twenty plots covering around 20 hectares, over the villages of Dampierre sur Loire, Souzay-Champigny and Saumur. 18.5 hectares are planted with Cabernet Franc, all of them within the appellation of Saumur-Champigny. The Saumur Blanc and Coteaux de Saumur come from 4 little plots of Chenin, representing 1.5 hectares.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe culmination of a gradual evolution, we turned to total organic farming in 2009. Not a drop of herbicide, giving up all synthetic sprays, ploughing: we had to rediscover all our ancestors’ know-how!\u003cbr\u003eBut what a reward it is to taste these new wines, resplendent in their pureness and elegance.\u003cbr\u003eA great figure of French winegrowing, former founder of the “Association des producteurs de Saumur-Champigny”, my father Georges departed at the end of 2013, 88 years old.\u003cbr\u003eHe was my unqualified support, my irreplaceable counsellor, he was my father and my best friend…a most important page had been turned.\u003cbr\u003eToday, Agathe, my elder daughter is joining the estate. Wonderfull! Once again we shall be 2 Vatans for the 2014 harvest… 300 years after Pierre!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePhilippe Vatan\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSaumur, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cspan\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFrom a serious basis of really ripe Cabernet Franc grapes, this is a really serious wine… But which doesn’t take itself too seriously! Its delightful lack of pretention that will please one and all!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePairs well with a juicy hunk of beef!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eLight notes of cherry, licorice root and plum are ripe and plush, with a silky feel and a subtle waft of alder smoke and tobacco leaf. Dried violet, pepper and sage elements add detail on the firm, incense-kissed finish. Elegant and light on its feet. Drink now through 2027.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eProduct Size: 750ml\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Avanelle","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51242317250865,"sku":null,"price":21.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_du_Hureau_Saumur-Champigny_Tuffe_Saumur_France_2022.jpg?v=1744309670"},{"product_id":"el-enemigo-gran-enemigo-gualtallary-single-vineyard-mendoza-argentina-2020","title":"El Enemigo, Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Mendoza, Argentina, 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlejandro Vigil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Malbec\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMendoza, Argentina\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEl Gran Enemigo SV Gualtallary shows a deep purple color with red highlights. Its aromas are intense and elegant. Cabernet Franc brings sweet spices, black pepper and light notes of eucalyptus and thyme. Malbec brings notes of ripe black fruits, blackberries and black cherries. The oak aging gives a touch of chocolate and vanilla to blend. The taste is complex, sweet impact with structured tannins, and a very long and persistent finish. This wine was made in\u003cbr\u003ehonor of the old Pomerol style where Cabernet Franc was blended with the other Bordeaux varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wine is excellent with grilled meats and various cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2020 Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard is nothing but phenomenal. It's very fresh and balanced and, for a warm year like 2020, doesn't show any heat or excess; it's subtle and has an ethereal character within the powerful and exuberant character from Gualtallary. It fermented in concrete with indigenous yeasts and some full clusters, sometimes up to 70% of the volume. It's intense and powerful, but something makes if feel light on its feet and with great inner power. This is still young and should develop nicely in bottle and for a long time. 9,000 bottles produced. It was bottled in July 2021 after maturing in large oak foudres for 15 months.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eInk and licorice with blackberry and black olive aromas. Medium- to full-bodied with round, fine tannins that are crunchy and refined. It has a juicy undertone and a savory finish. Just a hint of cedar and caramel at the end. Drinkable now but better in a year or two.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2020 Cabernet Franc Gran Enemigo Gualtallary hails from the higher-altitude regions of the Uco Valley. Despite being produced in a warm year, this wine maintains a juicy essence, although it lacks depth. It opens with an intense bouquet of grapefruit, violet, and wild herbs. Natural fruit flavors emerge on the palate, highlighted by blackberry hints and a chalky texture, culminating in a long, fruit-driven finish. This wine is a vertical, showcasing slightly riper fruit nuances. It's interesting how a region like Gualtallary can shift its profile between warm and cool years, emphasizing the extremes. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51425506001201,"sku":null,"price":128.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/El_Enemigo_Gran_Enemigo_Gualtallary_Single_Vineyard_Mendoza_Argentina_2020.jpg?v=1748613753"},{"product_id":"chateau-du-retout-haut-medoc-cru-bourgeois-superieur-france-2022","title":"Chateau du Retout, Haut-Medoc Cru, Bourgeois Superieur, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Phylloxera crisis at the end of the 19th century destroyed most of the French vineyards. Shortly after, the First World War, as well as the splitting up of properties due to inheritance laws, often led to the abandonment of winegrowing in general and even to the disappearance of some of the smaller wine estates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis was the case with Château Retou-Rosset in Lamarque and Château Salva de Camino in Cussac Fort Médoc, both of which were classified “crus bourgeois”, as well as another estate, the “petit cru” Château Moulina. It was only in the 1950s, after their acquisition by the Kopp family, that these estates were brought back to life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter a great deal of time and effort, the vineyards were gradually rebuilt. Today, this estate is still run by the Kopp family; daughter and son-in-law.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEric Boissenot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 10% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe Médoc grape varieties and soils give us wines with superb, dense, dark hues, ranging from deep garnet to ruby-crimson, taking on brick red shades with orange tints with age. Very intense and expressive aromas with powerful notes of black fruit such as blackcurrants and blackberries. In older wines, the nose develops a spicy bouquet of liquorice, leather and marshmallow mingled with the vanilla scents created by well-integrated oak. Harmonious, elegant and velvety, with smooth, round tannins, that can be appreciated from the wine's entry to the palate through to the finish. These are delightfully full-bodied wines with great aromatic persistence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e#45 of Top 100, 2024. Shows the ripeness of the vintage, with dark currant and blackberry notes framed by singed cedar and vanilla. Ends with a tug of warm earth, a light twang of iron and a steady grip. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2034. 9,600 cases made, 1,990 cases imported.\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2022 Château du Retout has a bright nose with redcurrant, raspberry and blood orange aromas. Underlying graphite notes emerge with time and impart more classicism. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins that lend this Haut-Médoc a sensual satin-like texture. Very composed, this sashays along with style. This classy offering should ultimately land at the top of my banded score.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot and 10% Petit Verdot, the 2022 du Retout reveals an elegantly reduced, vibrant bouquet of dark berries, cassis, spices and bay leaf. Medium to full-bodied, enrobing and charming, it's supple and round for a Médoc with delicate, velvety tannins and a long, fruity finish. It should age gracefully over the next decade.\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOlives, paprika and spiced currants throughout with firm but dissolved tannins that turn caressing and polished in a linear, medium-length finish. Fine-grained and not chewy. Drink from 2025.\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"mosaic","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51447356129585,"sku":null,"price":26.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_du_Retout_Haut-Medoc_Cru_Bourgeois_Superieur_France_2022.jpg?v=1749151784"},{"product_id":"crocker-starr-cabernet-franc-blend-napa-valley-california-2022","title":"Crocker \u0026 Starr, Cabernet Franc Blend, Napa Valley, California, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\"The Crocker \u0026amp; Starr name reflects the unique partnership between Charlie and Pam and the key components that each one brings to the table to achieve great wine: great grapes and great talent. In 1997, Charlie Crocker and Pam Starr established Crocker \u0026amp; Starr with a common goal of resurrecting the historic Crocker Vineyard Estate and creating world-class wines from its extraordinary terroir. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eApproaching their 24th harvest together, Charlie (the grapes) and Pam (the talent) are equal partners and co-owners of Crocker \u0026amp; Starr. The winery has been blessed with a strong heritage of credibility that represents a winemaking history of excellence from vine to bottle.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCharlie Crocker and Pam Starr’s partnership flags the resurrection of an 1870′s winery in the small town of St. Helena. Read more of our history here. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOur philosophy at Crocker \u0026amp; Starr is to capture the greatness of the Crocker Vineyard in powerful and balanced wines without compromise. We strive to set the bar for St Helena Appellation Cabernets as a First Growth Bordeaux Chateau would.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e69% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eNapa Valley, California\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA.V.A. stands for American Viticulture Area and for us it represents the culmination of sustainable viticulture, the resurrection of our 1870’s winery, and classic winemaking. The bouquet on the front label ties into our rich history, as it and our 1870’s Victorian home originate from a Sears \u0026amp; Roebuck catalog. Inspired by the great wines of the right bank of Bordeaux, our A.V.A. St. Helena blend of Cabernet Franc serves as the perfect red introduction to the Crocker \u0026amp; Starr portfolio. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCharming red and black fruits, sappy herbs, leather, and graphite define the 2022 Cabernet Franc A.V.A. Blend. Fresh and focused on the palate, with violets, spice, and a soft, supple texture, this elegant blend of 69% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe nose is lifted and fresh, with aromas of mulberry bush, blackcurrants and marzipan. The palate is full-bodied with fine tannins and integrated acidity, showing notes of blood plums, tomato bush and mocha. Soft and generous. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA blend of 69% Cabernet Franc, 22% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Malbec and 4% Petit Verdot, the aptly named 2022 A.V.A. Napa Valley Red Blend of Cabernet Franc is delicately herbal and floral but not hugely so, with dominant notes of red cherries, plus touches of redcurrant and cassis. It's medium to full-bodied, taut and fresh, which serves to accentuate the wine's modest tannins on the long, mouthwatering finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"KJS","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51944303853873,"sku":null,"price":63.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Crocker_Starr_Cabernet_Franc_Blend_Napa_Valley_California_2022.jpg?v=1760708578"},{"product_id":"chateau-marjosse-rouge-bordeaux-france-2020","title":"Château Marjosse, Rouge, Bordeaux, France, 2020 (Top Value)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChâteau MARJOSSE is a historical property located 14 km South of Saint Emilion, built in 1782. It is surrounded by 40 acres of vineyards which sit on exceptional clay and limestone soils. Winemaker Pierre Lurton, born and raised in a neighbouring château, bought the property piece by piece, starting in 1991, and has been producing widely-acclaimed reds and whites wines since then.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe terroir of Chateau Marjosse is sand with clay and limestone soils on sloping hillsides that rise to 60 meters at their peak. In the vineyards, Pierre Lurton watched over a replanting of the vineyards and a much tighter spacing for the new vines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChateau Marjosse is vinified in temperature-controlled cement vats and aged in French oak barrels. Since 2016, they have added smaller tanks to allow for more parcel by parcel vinification. This also allows for more experimentation with the small plantings of Malbec and Chardonnay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor the white Bordeaux wine of Chateau Marjosse, vinification and aging take place in a combination of large, used 500-liter oak barrels and egg-shaped cement vats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e80% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Cabernet Franc with a splash of old vines Malbec\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBordeaux, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDeep red color. On the nose, it has elegant and powerful aromas, with an aromatic pallet of red and black fruits, such as blueberries and blackberries. On the palate, it is smooth and fine, revealing a long and fleshy mouth with velvety tannins. We recommend pairing the wine with roast lamb, duck breast or beef-based dishes. We suggest a serving temperature of 16ºC\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Independent\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMedium garnet-purple in color, the 2020 Marjosse Rouge needs a little coaxing to reveal notes of cast-iron pan, crushed rocks, and dusty soil over a core of red plums, blackberry preserves, and mulberries, plus a hint of bay leaves. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is tightly knit with fine-grained tannins and bold freshness supporting the nuanced black and red fruits, finishing long and minerally.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA touch of reduction on the nose which clears as it relaxes in the glass. This is well put together, has definition and finesse, and is punching above its weight in the appellation. Ambitious, well managed tannins and juicy red fruits; 2% Malbec completes the plantings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis shows notes of ripe berries, vanilla, licorice, crushed walnut and cocoa. Medium-bodied with ripe, supple tannins and a creamy texture. Fruit-forward and flavorful.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2020 Marjosse is a deep, flavorful wine. Black cherry, leather, spice, tobacco, leather and grilled herbs give this hearty Bordeaux a good deal of savory and earthy character to match its midweight personality.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51975606534449,"sku":null,"price":22.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Chateau_Marjosse_Rouge_Bordeaux_France_2020.jpg?v=1761776544"},{"product_id":"el-enemigo-cabernet-franc-mendoza-argentina-2022","title":"El Enemigo, Cabernet Franc, Mendoza, Argentina, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlejandro Vigil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e90% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMendoza, Argentina\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis Cabernet Franc is ruby red in color with soft violet tones. The nose has intense aromas and concentrated notes of cassis, ripe currants, and sweet spices including black pepper and cloves. His tenure provides integrated oak notes of cedar and vanilla. Fresh impact and excellent structure on the palate, reminiscent of ripe red fruits with hints of eucalyptus and tagged black pepper. This wine has an excellent balance and elegance with a well-structured, persistent finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair this Cabernet Franc with grilled game meats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2022 Cabernet Franc is high-toned, fresh, and mineral-driven, with supple tannin and unobtrusive oak. Medium-bodied, it's well put together and a screaming value for the modest price. This will age well given its natural mouthwatering acidity and firm structure; cellar through 2037.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWet earth and elderberries shape the nose with a touch of dark chocolate. The velvety palate is medium- to full-bodied with a hint of cedar that complements the polished dark fruit. Approachable and exceptional for an entry-level wine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSourced from Gualtallary's Adrianna Vineyard, the 2022 Cabernet Franc contains 10% Malbec and underwent a 60-day maceration and aged for 15 months in a mix of foudre, barrique and tank. Opening with a dark-fruited, floral and spice-inflected nose, the palate offers dramatic richness tempered by a sturdy, upright, mineral-driven core. It concludes with an explosive, long and layered finish that balances vibrant energy and staining intensity. This is a strikingly overperforming example of the variety that should develop beautifully in the cellar.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52263122305329,"sku":null,"price":25.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/El_Enemigo_Cabernet_Franc_Mendoza_Argentina_2022.jpg?v=1767132477"},{"product_id":"domaine-de-pallus-messanges-rouges-chinon-loire-france-2024","title":"Domaine de Pallus, Messanges Rouges, Chinon, Loire, France, 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBertrand Sourdais made a name for himself at Spain's upstart Dominio de Atauta, before returning to his family estate in Cravant-les-Côteaux in the heart of the Chinon appelation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy 2010, seven years after taking the reins, Bertrand began reducing yields and converting the vineyards to biodynamic practices. This was coupled with changes in the cellar such as longer macerations and élévage to capture the true personality of Chinon and his beloved Cabernet Franc.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe flagship cuvée \"Les Pensées\" represents a blend of the estate's soils, combining fruit from limestone and clay for aromatics, heavier clay for power, and sand for finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBefore the age of 30, Chinon-native Bertrand Sourdais had already made an impressive name for himself at Spain’s upstart, Dominio de Atauta. It was his first post at the helm, following stints at Mouton-Rothschild in Bordeaux, Santa Rita in Chile, and with Alvaro Palacios in Priorat. His work and experience at Atauta, discovering a new terroir of remote ancient, ungrafted vines far away from the heart of the Ribeira del Duero appellation, gave him many invaluable lessons. The most important of these was the need to think critically about every single step in the viticulture and winery work, being careful to honor tradition, and sometimes question it, and to avoid mistakes often made by a more standard and modernist approach. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy 2003, Bertrand was determined to return to France and take up the challenge of his beloved Cabernet Franc. His family estate, Domaine de Pallus, is located in Cravant-le-Côteaux, in the heart of the appellation, and is blessed with some of Chinon’s choicest vineyards. With vines averaging over 45 years of age, Pallus held all the potential Bertrand could hope for. Taking what he had learned from Atauta, he began his quest to find the ultimate limit for Pallus and by 2010, conversion to biodynamic practices was underway. Additionally, he reduced yields to approximately 30 hl\/ha.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the cellar, Bertrand completely rethought the winemaking process. He employs an extended maceration of up to an thirty days, quite long by Loire Cabernet Franc standards, to capture the “true” personality of Chinon. Elévage is similarly long and gentle and primarily takes place in second passage barrels from elite Bordeaux estates. All in all, the wines are handled less, and bottled later, than almost any others in Chinon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMessanges—Messanges is an old Loire Valley name for Cabernet Franc. Bertrand is using this line for a Red and Rosé from his younger vines. Vinified for immediate accessibility, they are the perfect introduction to the Pallus style.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBertrand Sourdais\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChinon, Loire, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMessanges is an old Loire Valley name for Cabernet Franc. Domaine de Pallus reveals the charm and seductive character of Cabernet Franc. It has a floral and spicy character that pairs well with sausages and goat cheeses.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Elevage Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53351710064945,"sku":null,"price":23.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/DomainedePallus_MessangesRouges_Chinon_Loire_France_2021.jpg?v=1714329760"},{"product_id":"el-enemigo-gran-enemigo-gualtallary-single-vineyard-mendoza-argentina-2021","title":"El Enemigo, Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard, Mendoza, Argentina, 2021 (Cab Franc Blend)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlejandro Vigil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Malbec\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMendoza, Argentina\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard shows a deep purple color with red highlights. Its aromas are intense and elegant. Cabernet Franc brings sweet spices, black pepper and light notes of eucalyptus and thyme. Malbec brings notes of ripe black fruits, blackberries and black cherries. The oak aging gives a touch of chocolate and vanilla to blend. The taste is complex, sweet impact with structured tannins, and a very long and persistent finish. This wine was made in honor of the old Pomerol style where Cabernet Franc was blended with the other Bordeaux varieties.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wine is excellent with grilled meats and various cheeses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e99 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAs difficult as it is to pick a winner between the Gualtallary and El Cepillo bottlings, the 2021 Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard gets my nod as the supreme example of the Gran Enemigo Single Vineyard Cabernet Francs. It hails from a plot planted on calcareous rocky soils in 1995 with 10,000 vines per hectare, fermented with 40% whole bunches in barrique and underwent a 15-month élevage in 100-year-old foudre. Opening with a brooding, inward and quietly perfumed nose, its aromatic profile ceaselessly expands to encompass all manner of herbal and floral complexity, combining simmering intensity with supreme elegance. The palate follows suit with a rich, silky, refined and gently succulent energy, releasing into a graceful, dense and glacial conclusion that gives equal measure to vertical energy and horizontal richness. The finish slowly but steadily builds upon itself, revealing shimmering acidity and ultra-refined tannins with increased aeration. There is no better example of Cabernet Franc's suitability in the Uco Valley, a match rendered here with incomparable finesse, depth and complexity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points -  James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGraphite and blueberries with hints of tar, dark earth and ink on the nose. Medium-bodied with a compact and polished palate that is like a tight ball of fine silk in texture. Very structured yet all in balance. Give it four or five years to come around. But you’ll be tempted to try it now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Dunnuck\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother linear offering of the variety, excellent for further aging, the 2021 Cabernet Franc Gran Enemigo Gualtallary Single Vineyard is a showcase of the cooler-climate region, crisp on the palate in lengthy acidity and firm, dusty tannins. The oak accentuates the cauldron of dried herb, baking spice, and garrigue at its heart. Cellar through 2041.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"column\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv title=\"Page 1\" class=\"page\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"section\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"layoutArea\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54302663704881,"sku":null,"price":122.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ElEnemigo_GranEnemigoGualtallarySingleVineyard_Mendoza_Argentina_2021_CabFrancBlend.jpg?v=1788950288"},{"product_id":"emiliano-falsini-il-debbio-cabernet-franc-costa-toscana-italy-2022","title":"Emiliano Falsini, 'Il Debbio,' Cabernet Franc, Costa Toscana, Italy, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eI create artisan wines in the most authentic way possible, wines that deliver a faithful expression of their provenance: the municipalities of Randazzo on the northern slopes of Mount Etna and Castagneto Carducci on the Tuscan Coast.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe locations I have chosen for my vineyards differ in terms of their soil, climate and winemaking history but are very similar in terms of their potential for quality, their capacity to produce great wines with a strong personality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eEmiliano Falsini\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eTuscany, Italy\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eEmiliano Falsini is a consulting enologist from Tuscany. He has been working for years\u003cbr\u003ewith great estates in Tuscany, Sicily, and elsewhere, including Girolamo Russo, Alberto Graci, Tabarrini, and Antonella Lombardo. Now Emiliano has chosen to start producing wine under his own name, in two appellations he knows particularly well; the north side of Mount Etna in Sicily, and Bolgheri on the coast of Tuscany.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery deep in color, violet-tinged red; aroma and flavor of a mixture of berries\u003cbr\u003e(blackcurrant, blackberry?) with a balancing savory herbal note behind, appetizing and complex. When young, this shows a hint of oak on the palate, but this will integrate as the wine ages. Extremely well made, as one would expect; clean, fresh, direct, expressive, distinctive wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_list\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"pipProfessionalReviews_authorName\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\nA juicy, textured and pulpy cabernet franc expressing aromas of plums, cassis blossoms and hints of clay. It’s medium-bodied with fine tannins. Juicy and fruit-driven on the palate, with a velvety texture and a crunchy finish. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Oliver McCrum","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56276102054193,"sku":null,"price":44.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/EmilianoFalsini_IlDebbio_CabernetFranc_CostaToscana_Italy_2022.jpg?v=1789426539"},{"product_id":"olga-raffault-chinon-les-barnabes-loire-france-2022","title":"Olga Raffault, Chinon Les Barnabes, Loire, France, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eIn the beautiful country of Véron, rocked between the Loire and the Vienne, the Olga Raffault domain has been transmitting its know-how to produce its Chinon wines for five generations! Olga Raffault has dedicated her entire life to these landscapes that she loved so much and has always been able to share her love of wine!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eToday, Olga's granddaughter, Sylvie Raffault, with her husband Eric de la Vigerie and their son Arnaud de la Vigerie intend to maintain the good recipes of the past, a true family heritage, by combining modernity and Tradition with the efficiency of an exploitation always attentive to the requirements of a national and international clientele. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSylvie Raffault\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e100% Cabernet Franc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChinon, Loire, France\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAfter an early spring the hot and dry summer built us a very successful vintage with a deep color, a beautiful concentration in the mouth to offer a nice aging potential.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePerfect for Poultry and White Meat and Deli meats where simply as an aperitif.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe at 14 to 16°C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAromas of violet, spring flowers and dark wild berries preface the 2022 Chinon Les Barnabés, a moderately weighted, juicy and enveloping wine with a seamless, enveloping texture that segues into a delicate finish thanks to velvety tannins. This is a fine Cabernet Franc that offers nuanced complexity.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Elevage Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56289873690929,"sku":null,"price":24.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/OlgaRaffault_ChinonLesBarnabes_Loire_France_2022.jpg?v=1789515918"},{"product_id":"clau-de-nell-cuvee-violette-anjou-loire-france-2021","title":"Clau de Nell \"Cuvée Violette\" Anjou, Loire, France, 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA young estate founded in the early 2000s rearing to produce biodynamic wines out of the village of Ambillou-Château, in Maine et Loire, between Angers and Saumur, ended up catching the eye of Anne-Claude Leflaive and her husband Christian Jacques of the famed Domaine Leflaive in Puligny-Montrachet. This duo from Burgundy was eager to help another Domaine that equaled their passion for biodynamic winemaking and desire to make great wines. In a turn of events, the original owner facing difficulties had to sell the Domaine, which Leflaive purchased in 2008. Leflaive appointed a new manager, and the daughter of Anne-Calude and Christian even joined. This new team began planting a few more vineyards in the area with mainly Chenin Blanc. However, the real beauty of this estate is the old Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon Vines that had been planted 60-70 years ago on beautiful clay, flint, and tuffeau stone soils. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNatural and organic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSylvain Potin (connected to Domaine Leflaive) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e55% Cabernet Franc, 45% Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLoire, France\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Cabernet Sauvignon, by its generosity will bring us a spicy side, with touches of liquorice, as well as a fruity side (cherry, prunes, blackcurrant and blackberry…) A variety with a robust and powerful character that will unite with Cabernet Franc to gain freshness and liveliness. A complex, smooth wine with elegant tannins. Notes of undergrowth, leather and cooked fruit reveal themselves over time… Good aging potential.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair with nice red meat, sea salt and new potatoes, lamb stew with potatoes and vegetables. For lovers of red wine and cheese, there’s nothing like an époisse!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe at 16°C, do not hesitate to decant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEnchanting nose with red berries, fresh violets, dried chili and raw cocoa at first followed by dried flowers, sandalwood and crushed peppercorns. Medium to full bodied with finely grained tannins. Charming with balance, precision and elegance yet it does not lack any intensity. It’s dense at the center with a core of wild berries, herbs and spices developing through the mid-palate. Spicy and vibrant with a transparent character. It’s velvety and restrained with a long developing finish. Cabernet franc. From biodynamically grown grapes with Demeter certification. Drink or hold.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis herbal Cabernet Franc (55%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (45%) blend craves your full-flavored dishes. The wine has a savory nose of rhubarb, marjoram, dried field grass, red plum and mushroom. On the palate the wine has flavors of damp earth, black olive and black cherry. This is a bottle you open and savor over an evening, not just during a first course.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eA polished and vibrant red, with a harmonious feel to its flavors of red currant and earth, flecked with a black pepper note and a pleasing vegetal streak. An elegant robe of gentle oak is nicely integrated, while sculpted tannins guide the finish. Shows impressive freshness, with a graphite mineral core. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2028. 500 cases made, 108 cases imported.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Breakthru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56616939422001,"sku":null,"price":39.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/ClaudeNell_CuveeViolette_Anjou_Loire_France_2021.jpg?v=1791152941"}],"url":"https:\/\/marchantofwine.com\/collections\/cabernet-franc.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}