1997 Behrens Family Cuvée Lola Reserve

The 1997 Cuvee Lola (a blend of 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot) is one of the finest Cabernet Franc-dominated wines I have tasted from northern California, ranking alongside the superb efforts turned in by Dalla Valle, La Jota, and Pride Mountain. The wine exhibits a cedary, cigar box, black currant, and raspberry-scented nose, superb ripeness, rich, fleshy, low acid flavors, and a rich but not weighty mid-palate and finish. This wine will be drinkable upon release, and keep for 12+ years. Readers are well-advised to get on Behrens and Hitchcock's mailing list as a large percentage of their small production is sold via this route. Tel. 707-963-1774; Fax 707-963-8206