Deep ruby color; plum, raspberry, cherry, potpourri, spice on the nose; black cherry, strawberry, raspberry, plum, blackberry, cranberry, modest oak on the palate.
Dry; mild tannins; medium acidity (3.74 pH); ripe fruit. Medium body, dense and full texture in the mouth. Cab frac is the parent grape of both cabernet sauvignon and merlot and you can taste shadows of both, but cab franc offers more aromatics, less tannins, and similar acidity. 14.5% ABV
Lang & Reed is a small family producer in Napa started by Tracey and John Skupny. They use minimal intervention and natural winemaking methods with a particular focus on cabernet franc and chenin blanc. Their wine experience began 50 years ago working in the restaurant trade as sommeliers in Kansas City. Wine lured them to California in 1980 and Napa in 1984. Intrigued by possibilities of cabernet franc, they began producing wine in 1993. The winery is named after their two sons, J Reed and Jerzy Lang. They intend to keep Lang & Reed a family owned and operated winery.
The website notes the Skupny’s vision: “We aspire to produce wines that are aromatic, that possess rich and satisfying flavors, and that are varietally expressive, showcasing the traditional flavors of these old world varieties in a new world version.”
Lang & Reed Cabernet Franc, California 2019 is a varietally correct, 100% cab franc from a Napa maker committed to cab franc the past 30 years. Complex aromas, bushels of tasty dark fruits, easy-on-the-palate tannins framed by some acidity. Easy drinker, especially if you enjoy rich, mouth-filling reds. Pair with savory, hearty dishes; beef, barbecue, brisket, grilled steak, beef stew; pork; venison; barbecue chicken, dark chicken meat. Cheese—hard cheeses; cheddar, manchego, parmigiano-regglano, pecorino. $27-30
