ashes & diamonds, cabernet franc,

napa valley, california, usa, 2017

Organic - Certified

I was extremeley fortunate back in September 2019 as part of our trip to California to visit Ashes & Diamonds. It was our final vineyard visit of our week of being there, and well, it was certainly memorable - for all the right reasons.

The wines are made by Steve Matthiason and are well known amongst Somms for being extremely good & both taste and value. Napa has gained a reputation over recent years for some rather expensive price tags on some of its wines, and its lovely to see that you can buy Napa without going too extreme on the budget.

This is a blend of approx 75% Cabernet Franc & Merlot. The grapes are sourced from some of the cooler sites - Yountville/Oaknolle District & Los Carneros. The wine would have seen some partial oak ageing, which simply makes it all the more pleasant to enjoy.

The wine shows a degree of ripeness that isn’t overpowering, just really tasty. Lots of combined red and dark fruits, interlaced with hints of roasted peppers and fresh herbs too. On the palate is medium bodied, the tannins are ripe and super juicy.

This is a great wine and one that isn’t always readily available so get hold of some whilst you can.

ABV - 13%

I purchased this wine through Nekter Wines - Ashes & Diamonds No 1 Cabernet Franc No. 3 2017 — Nekter Wines for £85