2020 Carretto Cabernet Franc

2020 was a vintage for the ages (in more ways than one). The spring started off unseasonably warm and just got hotter as summer came. There was little rainfall and extended periods of perfect growing weather. In the fall the season was extended by warm weather right until the end of October. Look for some of the best wines Niagara has ever produced from this vintage.

This is a classic example of Cabernet Franc from an exceptional vintage. It pours a deep ruby colour, hinting at its intensity and complexity, and has excellent varietal character without any of the “green” or bell pepper notes often found in examples lacking ripeness. Instead, the nose is loaded with fresh ripe berries, a touch of liquorice and an abundance of cherry aromas, all alongside complexities of vanilla and charred wood from its lengthy barrel aging. These descriptors are also on display on the palate, which is very well balanced, offering youthful but soft tannins and ample cool climate acidity that brings out the fruit and makes it very food friendly.

This wine is very food friendly and would be best served with foods higher in protein, starch and salt, as to soften tannins and acidity- think lamb stew, vegetable lasagna, pepper-crusted steak, aged cheeses and game meats.

Technical Information:

Appellation: VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake

Blend: 100% Cabernet Franc

Oak Aging: 19 months French Oak

Alcohol: 13.5% ABV

Residual Sugar: 1.8 g/L