This Tuesday Tasting we try the original Cab — Cab Franc that is (Cabernet Sauvignon evolved later as a hybrid of Franc and Sauvignon Blanc) – with 3 excellent examples from 3 different countries. Featuring:
- Domaine Les Pins “Les Rochettes”, France – This 5th generation vineyard has received rave reviews for its Cab France (Wine Enthusiast & Wine Spectator, 92 pts) for good reason: this bright ruby red tastes of red berries and dark plums with a touch of smoke and minerality. $15 btl, $7 btg
- Don Manuel Villafane Cab France Reserve, Argentina – This vineyard at the foothill of the Andes has been producing highly rated Cabs (both kinds) and Malbecs for the last decade; this 2013 reserve combines the rich fruit flavours of the region (cherries and blackberries) with a touch of spice and a long, intense finish. $22 btl, $8 btg
- Botalcura Cabernet Franc Reserva, Chile—This full-bodied elegant red from one of our favorite Chilean vineyards, is hand-picked and lightly oaked to create rich flavours of black cherry, mocha, roasted red pepper and a hint of toasted bread and nuts. $17 btl, $8 btg
Tasting: $12