2016 Exclamation Cabernet Franc

The 2016 Vintage was extremely hot with little rainfall and lots of sunshine. To protect the grapes, we left foliage on the vines providing extensive canopy. The soil was able to hold moisture through the season to ensure the vines remained healthy in the heat, producing a crop balanced in sugars, water and acidity- a known Niagara trait.

An example of honest and authentic moderate climate Cabernet Franc, produced with fruit from an exceptional vintage. This wine showcases aromatics in the form of blackberry jam, fresh mint leaf, black pepper, cooked blueberry, black cherry, sweet tobacco, ripened plum, and blackcurrant. The palate mirrors the nose, with notable flavours of black cherry and blackberry, alongside toasted almond, with a hint of dark chocolate on the extended finish. Acid and tannin profile balance quite well, and with bottle maturity, will allow this wine to reveal tertiary characteristics and primary fruit development.

Consider foods that display elements of acidity and saltiness will balance the robust tannic profile, and allow the fruit in the wine to standout more prominently. Dishes such as as smoked ham with a maple mustard glaze, Applewood smoked chicken wings, or as a meat alternative, teriyaki tempeh or a French Dip with Portobello mushrooms. 

Technical Information:

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend: 100% Cabernet Franc

Aging: 24 months French oak

Alcohol: 14% ABV

Residual Sugar:  5.1g/L

Cellar capacity:  Now till 2026+