2018 Force de la Nature Cabernet Franc

The 2018 Cabernet Franc Force de la Nature is a tiny production of 150 cases of pure Cabernet Franc from Coeur de Valle. Varietal Franc notes are front and center in this classy, polished Oakville Franc. Crushed rose petal, mint, cinnamon and blood orange linger on the long, finely delineated finish. I would cellar the 2018 for at least a few years, as it has quite a bit of tannin that needs to integrate. This is another superb wine from young vines.

This is the first year that the fruit for this label comes entirely from estate grown fruit—the Morlet Family "Coeur de Vallée" vineyard in Oakville, situated more or less across the road from To Kalon, from where the fruit was previously sourced. Made from 100% Cabernet Franc, the 2018 Cabernet Franc Force de la Nature has a deep garnet-purple color, slipping seductively out of the glass with notes of cherry cordial, red currant jelly, mulberries and Black Forest cake plus suggestions of rose oil, pencil lead, cedar chest and unsmoked cigars with a waft of dried Provence herbs. The full-bodied palate is built like a brick house, with the taut, muscular red and black fruits framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness. The fragrant floral and savory nuances linger long into the multifaceted finish. Give this beauty a good 4-5 years in bottle to really spread its wings and drink it over the next 30+ years. 170 cases were made.