2023 Hawk and Horse Cabernet Franc Red Hills Lake County

2023 Hawk and Horse Cabernet Franc Red Hills Lake County

with No Comment $40-$50Cabernet FrancKevin VogtNapaUSA

Hawk & Horse

Cabernet Franc 2023
Red Hills Estate

2023 Hawk and Horse Cabernet Franc Red Hills Lake County

Dick Peterson helped shape Napa Valley history, which is part of what makes Hawk & Horse so compelling. Instead of chasing modern trends, the estate remains committed to something increasingly rare: site-driven wines built around farming, measured winemaking, and longevity. Sourced entirely from organically and biodynamically farmed volcanic vineyards in the Red Hills AVA, the 2023 Hawk & Horse Cabernet Franc delivers remarkable depth while preserving the freshness, precision, and aromatic lift that make great Cabernet Franc so captivating.

What stands out most is how unapologetically authentic the wine feels. Nothing here seems engineered toward trends or critic formulas. The structure feels natural. The freshness feels earned. Volcanic minerality, crushed herbs, dark fruit, and floral notes are allowed to speak clearly rather than being polished into sameness. In a market crowded with interchangeable luxury reds, this wine still feels deeply connected to a vineyard, a farming philosophy, and the people behind it.

Very few wines at this price point put together a resume like this. Estate grown. Biodynamically farmed. Volcanic soils. Dick Peterson and Scott Harvey are behind the winemaking. A 96-point score from Tasting Panel. Yet none of those details would matter if the wine itself did not deliver emotionally, and this absolutely does. The 2023 Hawk & Horse Cabernet Franc carries the kind of energy and personality that makes you stop after the first sip and immediately go back for another.

Hawk & Horse
Cabernet Franc 2023
Red Hills Estate
Retails: $65

Your Price: $49.99

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“Cab Franc grown on rocky soils at an elevation of 2,200 feet has quite the impact. Focused, with melting dark chocolate cherries, roasted coffee, blackberries, layered with candied violets. The palate is long, with exquisitely balanced tannins and a fine mineral tonality on the clean finish.”

96 Points

2022 Corazon Del Sol Cabernet Franc Revanna Vineyard Argentina

2022 Corazon Del Sol Cabernet Franc Revanna Vineyard Uco Valley Argentina

with No Comment $30-$40ArgentinaCabernet FrancKevin Vogt

Corazón del Sol

Cabernet Franc
Revana Vineyard 2022
Uco Valley, Argentina

2022 Corazon Del Sol Cabernet Franc Revanna Vineyard Argentina

High in Argentina’s Uco Valley, Corazón del Sol stands as the South American heartbeat of Revana Family Vineyards. Founded by Dr. Madaiah Revana, whose pursuit of terroir-driven excellence spans Napa, Oregon, and now Mendoza, this estate exists for one purpose: to show what Cabernet Franc can achieve when grown at extreme altitude, farmed organically, and guided by a precise hand in the cellar.

The 2022 ‘Revana Vineyard’ Cabernet Franc hails from a wind-swept block in Los Chacayes, capturing the rare balance of purity and power that defines this revered subregion. At 3,800 feet above sea level, the vines anchor into stony, alluvial soils laced with quartz and volcanic fragments, their deep roots and lean environment translating into fruit of remarkable intensity, lift, and mineral clarity.

Under the careful direction of winemaker Cristian Moor, the wine matured for 15 months in French oak, with only a subtle touch of new wood to refine texture without obscuring character. The result is a Cabernet Franc that speaks with quiet confidence and precision: an Argentine expression of altitude and authenticity, shaped by Revana’s global vision for excellence.

Corazón del Sol
Cabernet Franc
Revana Vineyard 2022
Uco Valley, Argentina
Retails at: $35

Your Price: $32

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“The 2022 Cabernet Franc fermented in stainless steel and matured in French barrique for 14 months. It leads with a distinctly fresh, alpine nose of fresh herbs and balsamic aromas surrounding a stony core. The palate is elegantly ripe and refined, concluding with a savory, drying finish that balances succulent fruits and savory undertones. This is a lovely example of Uco Valley Cabernet Franc to enjoy over the next handful of years.”

91 Points

2023 Schema Cabernet Franc Alexander Valley

2023 Schema Cabernet Franc Alexander Valley

with No Comment $30-$40Alexander ValleyCabernet FrancKevin VogtSonomaUSA

Schema

Cabernet Franc
Alexander Valley 2023

2023 Schema Cabernet Franc Alexander Valley

Schema Cabernet Franc 2023 debuts Madelyn Hille’s distinct winemaking perspective, honed through years of dedication at renowned houses such as Pax, Merry Edwards, and Arnot Roberts. With a careful, reflective approach, she’s shaped a wine that reflects her expertise and innate connection to Cabernet Franc. The result is a vivid, unadulterated expression—polished yet seemingly effortless in its clarity and precision.

Sourced from the biodynamically farmed Cisne Vineyard in Alexander Valley, this wine radiates vibrant finesse. Its mineral-threaded fruit, paired with bright acidity, ignites a lively, energetic palate. At a modest 12% alcohol, it strikes an uncommon harmony—airy and agile yet rich with intricate layers—delivering instant delight while hinting at a graceful evolution over time.

Picked by hand and fermented with native yeasts, this Cabernet Franc matured for 14 months in neutral oak, safeguarding the vineyard’s essence and allowing the grape’s delicate traits to emerge. Departing from the lush, fruit-forward profiles common in many New World renditions, it echoes the lifted, fragrant restraint of the Loire Valley. This wine captures a sense of place, poise, and unembellished purity, weaving together thoughtful farming and masterful winemaking.

Schema
Cabernet Franc
Alexander Valley 2023
Retails at: $42

Your Price: $38

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“The Schema 2023 Cabernet Franc from the Cisne Vineyard in Alexander Valley opens with bright notes of lilac, lavender, raspberry, orange zest, chai tea, earth, and a wet stone minerality. On the palate, the wine has a silky texture with flavors of red cherry, marionberry, pomegranate, white pepper, and aniseed. The wine’s low alcohol level is in a delicate balance with the light to medium body and concentration of flavors, ending in an elegant finish.”

95 Points

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

with No Comment $70-$80Cabernet FrancKevin VogtNapaPritchard HillUSA

Haute Montagne

Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021

2021 Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

The Haute Montagne Cabernet Franc was the brightest shining light at our recent tasting. Its seamless blend of dark fruit, intricate complexity, and striking elegance immediately captivated everyone present. Winemaker Douglas Danielak has skillfully captured the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill. The high-altitude terrain and cool microclimate produce wines of remarkable depth and character. Minimal intervention allows the vines to flourish in a natural balance, resulting in exceptional purity.

Danielak’s expertise is the product of extensive experience. With a degree in Viticulture and Enology from UC Davis and training at the Lycée Agricole et Viticole de Beaune in Burgundy, he has dedicated decades to perfecting his craft. His work at Knights Bridge has earned significant critical acclaim, and Wine Spectator recognized him as a “Winemaker to Watch” for his visionary approach. Each bottle he crafts showcases a rare harmony of technical skill and artistic inspiration.

Crafted using traditional French oak and the time-honored Bordeaux method, this wine elegantly combines the classic refinement of old-world winemaking with the opulent character of California fruit. The resulting Cabernet Franc possesses power and grace—a compelling and sophisticated expression of this distinguished varietal.

Haute Montagne
Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley 2021
Retails at:$90

Your Price: $75

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“This Pritchard Hill Cabernet Franc possesses a captivating allure. The nose unfolds with briary red and black berries, their vibrant fruitiness entwined with a mineral core of crushed granite and a hint of iron. Licorice adds a touch of intrigue, while cocoa powder and dried sage contribute to the complex aromas. A subtle lavender perfume lingers, adding a unique floral note. On the palate, the wine delivers a powerful yet refined expression of mountain fruit. Intensely penetrating flavors of concentrated boysenberry and black currant are complemented by the brisk acidity of Darjeeling black tea. Dusty tannins provide a firm yet elegant structure, while a touch of espresso bean adds complexity. The wine is incredibly focused and balanced, with a brilliantly orchestrated interplay of fruit, acidity, and tannin. The finish is remarkably long and mouth-watering, leaving a lingering impression of dark fruit and savory spice. This Cabernet Franc is a truly exceptional wine that beautifully showcases the unique terroir of Pritchard Hill.”

97 Points

Chateau De Parnay Loire Valley Cabernet Franc Saumur Champigny

2018 Chateau De Parnay Loire Valley Cabernet Franc Saumur Champigny

with No Comment $30 and underCabernet FrancFranceKevin VogtLoire Valley

CHÂTEAU DE PARNAY LE BLASON DE PARNAY

SAUMUR CHAMPIGNY 2018 
LOIRE VALLEY CABERNET FRANC

Chateau De Parnay Loire Valley Cabernet Franc Saumur Champigny
Château de Parnay in the Saumur Champigny AOC was purchased in 2006 by Regis Vincenot and Mathias Levron, who revived the estate and transitioned the farming into sustainable practices. Their certified organic vineyards include Old Cabernet Franc vines grown in yellowish-cream colored, chalky, and sandy limestone called tuffeau, a soil unique to the Loire Valley, which is known for producing exquisite quality Cabernet Franc.
 
The grapes for Le Blason were manually harvested and selected specifically for this wine before undergoing a cold maceration for three days, followed by 12 days of gentle extraction, creating a more elegant style of wine. This pristine 100% Cabernet Franc sees no oak during fermentation nor aging, giving rise to divine floral aromas, juicy red fruits, and earthy spice notes that transport you to the Loire Valley without ever having to leave your home.
 
CHÂTEAU DE PARNAY LE BLASON DE PARNAY
SAUMUR CHAMPIGNY 2018 
LOIRE VALLEY CABERNET FRANC
 
Your Price: $29.99
 
 
“The 2018 Chateau de Parnay “Le Blason” is vibrant and alive with fresh lavender, wild roses, cranberries, berry bramble, cloves, forest floor, and truffles. The wine shimmers on the palate with flavors of red cherries, red and black raspberries, dried oregano, and savory spices. This wine has a brilliant acidity that beautifully complements the deep complexity and leaves your mouth watering for another sip.”
95 Points
2017 Leto Cabernet Franc Mount Veeder

2017 Leto Cabernet Franc Mount Veeder

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet FrancKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSA

LETO

CABERNET FRANC
2017 MOUNT VEEDER

2017 Leto Cabernet Franc Mount Veeder
Leto Cellars matches entrepreneurial determination for crafting limited amounts of superior quality wines with hard work that’s intensified with knowledge and more than 50 years of experience. Their 50 case production of Mount Veeder Cabernet Franc exemplifies Brad Warner’s ability to identify exceptional vineyards and transform the fruit into a varietally sound, memorable masterpiece, offering uncanny value. 
 
Brad sourced his Cabernet Franc from a single-vineyard perched at 1,100 feet elevation on Mount Veeder, chosen for its volcanic soils and low yields of concentrated fruit with intense flavor. Mt Veeder is the coolest Mountain in Napa, which allows the grapes a longer hang-time so they can develop into something majestic. With a production of only 50 cases, you might want to keep this one secret, at least until you get your case!
 
LETO
CABERNET FRANC
2017 MOUNT VEEDER
Retails at: $78
 
 
 
“The 2017 Leto Cabernet Franc is a beautiful, classic style that opens with aromas of red currants, black raspberries, fresh florals, bramble, crushed rocks, sage, and a hint of white pepper. The palate is fresh and complex with wild blackberries, dried herbs, baking spices, vanilla, and toast, all perfectly balanced by the wine’s crisp, mountain acidity. The finish is long and savory, with soft, integrated tannins that provide an excellent structure for aging but are also pleasant in the wine’s youth.”
94 Points
2016 Simon Di Brazzan Cabernet Franc Friuli, Italy

2016 Simon Di Brazzan Cabernet Franc Friuli, Italy

with No Comment $30 and underCabernet FrancItalyKevin Vogt

SIMON DI BRAZZAN

2016 CABERNET FRANC
FRIULI, ITALY

2016 Simon Di Brazzan Cabernet Franc Friuli, Italy
Winemaker Daniele Drius of Simon de Brazzan crafts his Cabernet Franc in a captivating style that beckons thoughts of neighborhood bistros, porch swings, and conversation. The wine captures classic varietal traits, like herb-laced red fruits, subtle peppery characteristics, delivering them in a refreshingly easy-to-drink manner that’s reminiscent of Pinot Noir. 
 
Daniele protects the authenticity of his vines through organic farming practices. His thirteen hectares of vines project the sea influence, benefits of the Alps, and alluvial soils. The composition of the land and soils determine the division of each unique parcel. 
 
Tradition does not hinder innovation at Simon di Brazzan. Daniele harvests the fruit by hand and meticulously de-stems the berries before fermenting on the skins and lees for enriched depth and color. The resulting wine is a delicious drinker with a sense of place, balance, and suppleness that’s highly enjoyable.
 
SIMON DI BRAZZAN
2016 CABERNET FRANC
FRIULI, ITALY
 
Your Price: $26
 
 
“Intense ruby red color with purple shades; Distinctive herbaceous scent, elegant and spicy; Velvety flavor, soft, slightly bitter, young but full.”
2016 Lateral Proprietary Red Napa Valley

2016 Lateral Proprietary Red Napa Valley

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet FrancKevin VogtMerlotNapaProprietary RedUSA

LATERAL 

PROPRIETARY RED
2016 NAPA VALLEY

2016 Lateral Proprietary Red Napa ValleyLateral is a wine inspired by the Bordeaux region of St. Emilion and influenced by the interplay and tension created between Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Proprietor Marty Mathis, whom you might recognize from his super high-scoring Kathryn Kennedy wines, decided to showcase how each of these iconic grapes can harmonize to compliment yet contrast each other way that’s different from other Bordeaux style blends, and the results simply have to be tasted.  

 
Lateral’s 2016 vintage slants towards cooler-climate, expressive vineyards, primarily located in the Southern portion of Napa Valley. On the palate, it’s a highly detailed wine with spiced red fruits, wild mint, rock minerals, rose and cocoa dusted plum. 
 
A stunning example of just how inspiring Right Bank influenced blends from Napa Valley can be, Marty loves to showcase the lush textures and richness of Merlot entirely opposing the aromatic qualities and structure of Cabernet Franc.  At under $40, you might grab a case quickly, before this deal goes sideways.
 
LATERAL 
PROPRIETARY RED
2016 NAPA VALLEY
Retails at: $50
 
Your Price: $39.99
 
 
 
“Very deep dark royal purple color. Classic Bordeaux style nose with tobacco leaf herb notes and dark brooding black berry aromas plus hints of cherry cream candies. Ideal amounts of subtle creamy oak barrel influences. Soft ripe plums, vanilla cream and loamy earth notes are complex and very inviting. Fresh but rich in the mouth (like so many wines of 2016), lithe and elegant mouth-feel leads to cranberry, minerals and dark cocoa flavors. Tannins are still youthful and acid balance portends well for cellar development; This is a bigger style of LATERAL to be en- joyed now and over a longer period of years”  67% Merlot | Cabernet Franc 33%
2015 Leto Cellars Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc

2015 Leto Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet FrancKevin VogtMt VeederNapaUSA

LETO

CABERNET FRANC
2015 MT VEEDER

2015 Leto Cellars Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc
If Napa Valley Cabernet is gold, then Cabernet Franc is platinum, due to its scarcity and cult following. There’s around twenty times as much Cabernet Sauvignon planted in Napa Valley, and on average, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes sell for less than Cabernet Franc. The coveted grape is revered for its stunning power, concentration, delineation, and mouthwatering acidity. Leto’s 2015 Mt Veeder Cabernet Franc, which retails at $78, is simply brilliant. What’s left of this 50 case production is going to fly.
 
Leto sourced their 2015 Cabernet Franc from a single-vineyard perched at 1,100 feet elevation on Mount Veeder. They chose this site for the incredible volcanic soils and vines that yield small, powerful berries with intense flavor. 
 
Mt Veeder is the coolest Mountain in Napa, which allows the grapes to have a longer hang-time so they can develop into something majestic. With a production of only 50 cases, you might want to keep this one secret, at least until you get your case.
 
LETO
CABERNET FRANC
2015 MT VEEDER
Retails at: $78
 
 
 
“The Leto Cellars Mount Veeder Cabernet Franc 2015 begins with a beautiful nose of red cherries, fresh sage leaf, Spring lavender, and Italian glove leather. On the palate, it is vibrant, with penetrating red cherries, black licorice, nutrient-rich earth, with sweet vanilla oak and spice box, and a gorgeous, lingering finish. Drink now through 2028.” 93 Points
2015 Selene 'Chesler' Cabernet Franc

2015 Selene ‘Chesler’ Cabernet Franc

with No Comment $30-$40Cabernet FrancCalistogaKevin VogtNapaUncategorizedUSA

SELENE

2015 CHESLER
CABERNET FRANC

 
2015 Selene 'Chesler' Cabernet Franc
Mia Klein’s 2015 Chesler is so ridiculously good, that once you taste it, you might end up calling me back, wanting to pay more for it.  Sure!  Anyway, Chesler has been a staple in our Yountville store since we opened, and is easily one of the best wines on the shelf in the $50 range.  It’s a profound interpretation of New World Cabernet Franc and Merlot from ancient vines in the Frediani Vineyard.  The wine was composed by Mia Klein, who has a long history of making wines for Dalla Valle, Spottswoode, Araujo, Viader, and Chappellet, as well as being named Winemaker of the Year by Food & Wine Magazine.  This perfectly choreographed dance between the dominant Cabernet Franc is softened by blending elegant, supple Merlot.  The 2015 Chesler engages your emotions with intense blueberry and vivid red raspberry notes pirouetting with white flowers, wild mint, chocolate and wild rose.
 
Sculpted from the historic Frediani Vineyard which was planted in 1905, Mia gives voice to the Cabernet Franc and Merlot vines from this vineyard, and the result has to be tasted to be believed.  A blend of 85% Cabernet Franc and 15% Merlot, the 2015 is full-bodied and opulent with great depth and delineation.  The Merlot adds an opulence to the Cab Franc, softening any hard edges that might have otherwise existed, and the end result is simply stunning.  Don’t let this one ski by…
 
SELENE
2015 CHESLER
CABERNET FRANC
Retails at:  $50/btl
 
 
 
Winery Notes: “Mixed berry pie, complete with crisp, buttery crust, dark chocolate dipped fresh strawberry, and light caramel in the aromatics. The aromas come through with impact and intensity in the mouth, especially the fresh strawberry. The tannins are just a half step in the foreground of the other flavors, showing a bit of chewiness, acting as the mortar cementing the parts into the whole.”  85% Cabernet Franc | 15% Merlot