The 2019 Cabernet Franc from the Uco Valley contains 10% of Malbec and spent 15 months in foudres. Violet in hue. The raw nose offers a whiff of stem and herbal hints with a touch of sour cherry and a fruity backdrop. Quite smooth and juicy with a degree of tension and a frank expression, the dark fruit flavors are compact at the back of the mouth, leading into the lengthy finish.

It was curious to see how the Cabernet Franc in cooler years seemed to have ripened more thoroughly, and the 2019 Cabernet Franc and the 2021 felt riper than the 2020, with darker fruit and a headier sensation, despite all being around 13.5% alcohol. These bottlings are never 100% from the variety, and this one contains some 10% Malbec. It has some spicy oak in the background. 23,500 bottles were filled in July 2020.

Light- to medium-bodied in style, showing loam and pepper accents to the plum and cherry core, with mineral-laced tannins folding in. Drink now. 2,400 cases made, 1,800 cases imported.