2022 Virginia Cabernet Franc
2022 Virginia Cabernet Franc
This Cabernet Franc reflects the rustic elegance and natural character of Virginia. Aromatics are lifted and savory, balanced by a clear expression of fruit. Cherry, plum, and orange peel lead, layered with cedar, anise seed, black pepper, and ginger. Whole cluster fermentation adds a fresh herbal lift and gentle spice, bringing dimension without overshadowing the core fruit.
The palate is medium-bodied with fine, lightly structured tannins and a persistent, savory finish.
In Stock
Composition / Blend
90% Cabernet Franc, 6% Tannat, 4% Merlot
Size
750mL
Wine Specs
Vintage
2022
Varietal
Cabernet Franc
Bottling Date
2/20/24
Alcohol %
13.5
Winemaker Notes
One lot was fermented with no whole cluster, and the other with 10% whole cluster to add fresh savoury character and complexity of tannin. This wine was aged in 15% new oak, and roughly half was in large format oak barrels to enhance the delicate fruit characters without overwhelming the palate. Tannat and Merlot played supporting roles in this wine by elevating the ripe fruit flavor while still preserving the elegant, tannins of Cabernet Franc.
Vineyard Notes
2022 was an eventful vintage for Early Mountain, with climatic events varying significantly from site to site.
Early spring, we experienced few frost events, escaping significant fruit damage. Throughout spring and into summer, we saw typical showers, which thankfully cleared up around bloomtime, returning shortly after, resulting in a bit more of a rainy season than 2021 experienced.. As the season progressed, we saw greater variability in rainfall depending on site, throughout the state. The late season rains, leading to harvest were also accompanied by notable drying, and at times, significant diurnal shifts, which allowed for balanced vineyards to fully ripen prior to seeing the remnants of Hurricane Ian.