2015 JAMES JOSEPH “NAPA VALLEY” CABERNET FRANC, RESERVE

In each vintage, this wine converts more people into devout Cabernet Franc fans than any wine I’ve ever seen.  With a total production of just 4 barrels, this rarely bottled varietal from James Joseph grabs you right from the start.  Showing surreal-like tension between Atlas Peak and Diamond Mountain terroirs, the 2015 is locked and loaded with crushed black fruits, camphor, burning embers, and black cherries, laced with volcanic minerals, graphite and crushed rock.  Composed by the same winemaker that makes the popular Steps Reserve and Witchery Wines, this wine is a top-prize for your cellar and a stunner on your dinner table.

Rising up from 18 months in high quality oak barrels, the 2015 includes a dash of Merlot which adds a supple, velvety character that’s inescapably delightful.   Those of you who tasted the 2014 Reserve Cabernet Franc, are likely already salivating in anticipation, and all I can say is…  Wait until you taste the 2015 release.