Friday, September 6, 2013

Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

They say the best way to make a small fortune in the wine business is to start with a large fortune.  To that end, you may want to emulate Rich Frank, the owner of Frank Family Vineyards.  Like a number of California vintners, Frank left a career in which he literally waded through money to go into a career in which he wades through grapes.

He was Chairman of Walt Disney Television and headed Disney’s syndication arm, Buena Vista. Then he became the President of Walt Disney Studios, a chair he occupied for nearly a decade.  He oversaw the development of The Disney Channel.  All that after serving as chief at the Paramount Television Group and Chris Craft Television.  He also helped found USA Network in his spare time.  Enough with the resume, though.  Let's talk about wine.

This $50 could be hard to come by - it's sold only through the winery and at select restaurants and retailers.  The blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot, 3% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc aged for 20 months in French oak, 30% of which was new.  Alcohol content measures 14.5% abv.  A sample was provided to me by Jarvis Communications.

This Cab is deep ruby red with a nose of blackberry, cassis and vanilla spice.  The bold palate is full of the same, with the added attraction of some pencil point and and a plum note that powers right through the finish.  Freshly poured, the tannins are out to get your attention.  They will serve well with heavy beef dishes.  Allow a bit of time for the air to do its work, and the tannins smooth out considerably.


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