Bergevin Lane Columbia Valley Cabernet Franc 2004

Cabernet Franc could be called "the fifth dimension" as it is often used in France along with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec for classic Bordeaux blends. Here standing almost alone, the overall impression is fruit-forward, just enough different and complex to stimulate good conversation, and gone-in-a-flash delicious.

Not all that different from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cab Franc is purported to be one of its parents (along with Sauvignon Blanc). Compared with Cabernet Sauvignon, it's a thinner skinned grape, and when its personality is most evident, it makes wines that are a bit lighter in tannins, fruitier, and a bit more herbal.

In Washington State, Cab Franc is happy and thrives due to its early to bud and early to harvest nature. It usually shows up in red blends, but occasionally makes an appearance as the belle of the ball.

Amber Lane and Annette Bergevin decided to give Cabernet Franc 2004 its time in the sun and bottled a mere 200 cases of this 89% Cab Franc, 11% Merlot sourced from Alder Ridge and Spring Creek Vineyards. Aging was mostly French oak barrels (90%, with 8% American and 2% Eastern European) and they used almost a third new oak to showcase the fruit's star quality.

Alder Ridge is well managed and ideally located 800+ acre property about 15 miles west of Paterson, sitting up 400-90+ feet above the Columbia River and facing south. Spring Creek Vineyards location is in the Red Mountain AVA near Benton City.

Tasting Notes: Appearance: Deep purple cranberry with a medium haze, semi-opaque. Aromas: Black raspberry, cherry, citrus rind, cassia/spice and caramelized oak. The mouthfeel is politely firm and polished and overall medium-bodied. Cherry cola flavors plus some citrus rind and herbal characteristics lead to a lively dry finish that manages to kick out a bit of oak.

Very nice value: $34. Closure: Real cork. Alcohol content: 14.2%

Winewaves recently reviewed Bergevin Lane's Calico Red 2004, a blend including Cab Franc. There are additional details about the winery included in that review.