GOLD MEDAL (92 points), Winemaker Challenge International Wine Competition
Winemaker Notes:
This Cabernet Franc exhibits a lovely balance between the
old and new world. There are initially
some nice jammy red fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, and cherries, which
then lead into a touch of plums, dates, pears, and apple. The fruit aromas are nicely balanced with earthiness,
forest floor, and a hint of leather/suede along with a touch of cinnamon, spice,
and brioche. The oak is subtle and
elegant with some soft tannins. The wine
has a clean fruit-forward finish.
Vintage:
Starting with a mild winter we rolled into an early spring. In late March we started seeing temps in the
70’s with just a few cooler days to follow.
The spring conditions led to excellent fruit set and ultimately a bountiful
crop. The summer, for Virginia, was very
mild with only a few days of hot humid conditions. The Autumn was particularly dry with warm
days and cool nights. From mid-September to early October, we experienced very
little rain which is invaluable for maturing grapes. I believe the 2019 vintage to be the best I
have experienced in Virginia for my tenure here.
Blend
100% Cabernet Franc
Harvest
The Cabernet Franc was harvested on 14 October at 25.1 brix,
3.84 pH and 4.44 g/L TA.
Vineyard Source:
100% Benevino Vineyards, Winchester, VA
Fermentation
The Cabernet Franc fermented in ½ ton macro bins for 12 days
with D254 Yeast.
Aging
74% Neutral French oak, 15% 2 Year old French oak, 8% 1 Year
old Hungarian oak, 3% New Hungarian oak.
Bottling Date
17 March 2021 – 935 cases produced
Release Date
26 March 2021
Technical Information
13.8% Alc.
3.76 pH
5.78g/L TA
0.04% RS (dry)
