Chateau St. Jean Estate Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Sonoma Valley, USA

圣·讓城堡園品麗珠干紅葡萄酒

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The Bordeaux varietals include a well-made, straightforward 2007 Cabernet Franc CSJ Estate Vineyard that reveals hints of cedar wood, mint, bay leaf, and red and black currants in a medium-bodied, straightforward, but pleasant and endearing style. It is meant to be drunk over the next 5-6 years. Readers looking for a bevy of outstanding white wines at remarkably fair prices need look no further than the copious number of selections from Chateau St. Jean. There’s a lot to like at all different price points, but the under $25 grouping is especially strong, as evidenced by the following tasting notes. This winery has long been one of the leaders in producing Loire Valley-styled Sauvignon Blancs, which they call Fume Blanc. The Pinot Noir program is less successful than the Chardonnays, but progress is evident with each new vintage. Tel. (707) 833-4134; Fax (707) 833-4200

The Bordeaux varietals start with an impressive 2003 Cabernet Franc from the estate vineyards. Dark ruby/purple with a nose of subtle menthol interwoven with cranberry, sweet cherry, licorice, and smoky oak, the wine has a velvety texture, is medium to full-bodied, but exceptionally elegant, savory, intense, although light on its feet. This is a beauty to drink over the next decade. Tel. (707) 833-4134; Fax (707) 833-4200

As a component wine, this brings a rich cherry aromatic to a Cab blend. On its own, the wine is fairly simple, with red cherry and mocha flavors, and plenty of oak. The wine is dry and elegant. Drink now. ——S.H.(4/1/2006)—— 87

Readers who enjoy aromas of mint, smoke, herbs, new saddle leather, blueberries, and cranberries should check out the 2001 Cabernet Franc St. Jean Vineyard. This delicious, fragrant, spicy, food-friendly wine will provide plenty of pleasure over the next 5-6 years. Tel. (707) 833-4134; Fax (707) 833-4200

Readers looking for an elegant, New World St.-Emilion-look alike should check out the 1999 Cabernet Franc St. Jean Estate Vineyard (100% Cabernet Franc from the estate vineyard). It possesses aromas of menthol as well as red and black currants, medium body, and a sweetness and finesse rarely found in California. This wine is already complex and attractive, with nicely integrated wood. It should drink well for 10-12 years. Tel. (707) 833-4134; Fax (707) 833-4200