2019 Bright Fortune

91 points - Antonio Galloni

"The 2019 Cabernet Franc Bright Fortune is a powerful, dense wine. Black cherry, mocha, dried herbs, licorice and incense all meld together. There's very good fruit purity and depth..." - Antonio Galloni, Vinous

Cabernet Franc is like the mischievous, atavistic brother of Cabernet Sauvignon. In Europe, Cab Franc does not produce the aristocratic aroma and flavor of Cabernet Sauvignon that has been the favorite of nobility over the centuries. Cab Franc’s wines are usually a spicier twist on blueberry and blackberry, and are potentially more herbal. They have a wildness that in Europe has always made them the favorite of the local country folk. Personally, I like Cab Franc for its earthy mystery. After all, I am a Pinot Noir guy. Earthy/funky works for me.

Almost three decades ago I thought Cab Franc was going to become SB County’s next it grape. Then, mysteriously all of the Cab Franc vineyards died (we know now that it was due to virus). I was forced to go on a Cab Franc hiatus for over ten years until some new, brave growers in the Santa Ynez Valley started to replant “Frankie.” Bright Fortune is a return to the charm and potential that this variety had in the beginning. Once again Cab Franc’s future is bright.