I loved the penetrating aromatics and floral, blueberry, and menthol notes of the deep ruby/purple-colored 2002 Cabernet Franc. The blend is actually 75% Cabernet Franc and 25% Merlot. The flamboyant fragrance jumps from the glass of this sweetheart of a wine. There is tremendous concentration and intensity of flavor, yet the wine is light on its feet, with a surreal, ethereal flavor profile. Cabernet Franc can do some special things in California, and it is good to see this wine perform so well. Already drinkable, it should last for 10-15 years. Readers who love the Bob Foley style of wines, and there seem to be many who do, should also know that he produces wines under his own name, and is also the winemaker for Switchback Ridge and Hourglass, two other up-and-coming estates.Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-8364

Cab Franc alone rarely makes a great wine in California, and this one’s no exception. It’s awfully nice in initial raspberry-cherry flavors, but loses substantial power and vitality midpalate, especially given the size of the tannins. ——S.H.(6/1/2005)—— 86