Violet Green Cabernet Franc "Quercus Ranch" Lake County 2012

Humboldt County winery gets fruit from organic vineyard near Kelsyville (2 hour drive north of Napa). Like a bigger/bolder Merlot, Violet Green Cabernet Franc boasts forward fruit, silky mouthfeel, underpinnings of earth and dried herbs, then a long finish of dark berries, earth, light spice, thyme and toasty oak. The barrel plays a role: aged in 50% new French oak, 50% once-used for 2 years. You'll notice the sweet oak throughout, especially first-opened. With air, the flavor of the grape blossoms and oak plays more of a supporting role. 118 cases made.