Another winner, the 2007 Cabernet Franc is slightly more closed and tannic than the Merlot. It reveals notes of herbs, cedar, spice box, and fruit, beautiful density, sweet tannin, and a mid-weight feel in the mouth. It should drink nicely for 10-12 years. Although this is a Napa report, I took the liberty of including the Pride Mountain Sonoma bottlings since their wines tend to be primarily Bordeaux varietals rather than the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, etc. that will be covered in the Sonoma report. My apologies to subscribers and the winery for some mistakes I made last year in issue #180, when I listed 2006 instead of 2005 for the Reserve and Vintner's Select wines. This is the strongest portfolio of Pride Mountain wines that has been made under the new winemaker, Sally Johnston, who replaced Bob Foley several years ago.Tel. (707) 963-4949; Fax (707) 963-6039

A lovely Cabernet Franc, one of the best on the market. Shows classic Pride Mountain characteristics of ripeness, balance and immediate drinkability, although it will take a few years in the cellar. Dry and full-bodied, it’s rich in black cherries, spices and oak, with firm tannins. Now–2013.——S.H.(5/1/2010)—— 92