Enobytes

First, I have to say I am a huge fan of Cabernet Franc and this one from the Columbia Valley AVA has moved to the top of my list for this variety produced domestically. Seven of Hearts is a small producer here in Willamette Valley who is becoming well known one bottle at a time. [...]

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When celebrating the founding of this nation it is sad how many of us tend to do a pretty damn boring job of it. I mean really, are burgers and hot dogs the celebratory foods we want to commemorate the birth of our nation? I think not! This 4thof July I suggest we all step [...]

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The ’05 Sheridan Vineyard L’Orage is a blend of 65% Cabernet and 35% Cabernet Franc with aromas of dark fruit and chocolate. On the palate, it’s a slightly chunky wine with blueberries, blackberries and cassis with a medium-long, cigar box finish. I’d recommend decanting before drinking. Rating: Very Good | $42 | 14.1% ABV Find [...]

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This wine hit all the notes I’m looking for in a Cabernet franc and its a wine that deserves a little recognition. It’s extremely clean, a back to basics style that will really blow you away; forward, clean black fruit and violet flavors with a spicy, rich finish. I couldn’t get over how balanced the [...]

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Lean and mean, the 2005 Olga Raffault Chinon Les Galuches is firm without being huge and enjoyable for that trait. The fruit is restrained in a way the makes you think about it. Good enough to notice but you have to mentally dissect the flavors – why? Just enjoy the wine; it is unique and [...]

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Yes the dreaded 89. Why so many wineries despise the 89 is beyond me. It means it was almost an A (excellent) instead of just a very good. Vintages for different varieties (especially Cabernet Franc) can be quite varied in Napa – more than Sonoma (weather is a bit more consistent) but consistency in grapes [...]

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