Palate
The 2017 vintage features flourishes of ripe red cherry, cranberry and raspberry with tilled earth undertones and subtle hints of orange zest. The finely textured finish rings with acidity, making this wine a versatile food-pairing partner – complex and balanced.
Growing Conditions
Monte Rosso’s Cabernet Franc vines are an average age of 25 years and sit above the fog line, receiving the ideal combination of sunlight and cool breezes to build layered, complex flavors. In 2017, ample winter rains fueled vine growth early in the season – a warm, steady summer and fall followed, leading to a slightly early harvest with intensely fruit-driven yields.
Harvest
Our Cabernet Franc was harvested by hand in the cool early morning hours. At the winery, the grapes were hand-sorted, destemmed and crushed in a gentle basket press.
Aging
Fermentation occurred in small open-top vessels, which allow for highly precise handling of the grapes throughout the entire process. Total aging was 15 months in French oak barrels (52% new), adding touches of cedar and toast to a fresh, layered finish.
