Cabaret Frank No.2 ‘The Aviary’ – Old Vine Cabernet Franc
Producer – Made by Boutinot
The Vineyard
The grapes are harvested from ‘old vines’ (35 years old) sourced from the single biggest Cabernet Franc vineyard in the world located in Lodi, Central California.
To enable the true flavours and characters of the Cabernet Franc (and touch of Cabernet Sauvignon) to shine through, no oak is used in the ageing process.
What does it go with?
You’d think we’d be recommending red meats but this is a food wine that really lends itself to vegetarian dishes. Try it with grilled aubergine, or with a stuffed green pepper, it’s got Mousaka written all over it! Also cabbage, kale or herby dishes using sage, thyme, rosemary or saffron all work well. This is a true ‘Swiss Army’ wine, extremely versatile, it will also go brilliantly with tomato based dishes; lighter meats such as turkey or chicken and of course game meats like duck and richer beef based dishes like steak or veal.
You will struggle however to use it to remove anything from a horses hoof.
What the Press said:
2012 Vintage: “For the price, pretty incredible. ‘Rich, complex and well-structured, with lots of dark morello cherries, plums and spices,’ said team leader Andrea Briccarello. Gareth Ferreira of Launceston Place found ‘slightly smoky, ripe red fruit aromas’ on the nose, along with a palate of ‘ripe blueberry and raspberry, soft tannin, nice balance and length’. Aim for the steak and stews with this one.” Sommelier Wine Awards 2015, Judges Comments
One of Jane MacQuitty’s ‘Top 50 for Christmas’ in The Times, 29th November 2014.
