2016 Cabernet Franc

Before Cabernet Sauvignon, there was Cabernet Franc. This elegant grape, long prized for its spicy aromatics and lithe energy, was in fact the genetic parent of Cabernet Sauvignon.

Legendary Winemaker Christopher Carpenter leads a bold new adventure in Napa Valley’s finest mountain terroir, exploring the nuance, elegance and charisma the variety.

Winemaking

The Yverdon Vineyard on Spring Mountain serves as the foundation of the wine and reaches 2,000 feet in elevation, making it the coolest of Caladan's sites. This, combined with a geology that is dominated by sedimentary soils. Caladan shows an elegant synthesis and unique essence of four Napa Valley mountain appellations: Spring Mountain District, Howell Mountain, Diamond Mountain District, and Mount Veeder.

The 2016 vintage is comprised of 81% Cabernet Franc and 19% Merlot. It spends 20 months in French oak, 66% if which are new barrels.

Tasting Notes

The 2016 Caladan opens with dark cherry, Asian spice, and floral notes of rose petal on the nose, followed by a lush palate. The Cabernet Franc and Merlot ride in perfect harmony throughout the long finish, with delicate minerality and sleek tannin structure.