Martin Woods Cabernet Franc 2021

Tasting Notes: classic, varietally pure aromas...subtle garden herbs and peppers—ripe cherry kirsch fruit, bright & refreshing—balanced, refined structure with a long resonant finish—will develop beautifully over many years- the winery

Our Tasting Notes:  Persistent bell pepper/pyrazine nose, black tea, red fruits (cherry, raspberry), medium plus body, 

AVA: the Rocks District of Milton-Freewater & Walla Walla Valley

vineyards: RockBar, Seven Hills & McClellan Estate

elevation: approximately 950 ft

soil series: Freewater (cobblestone and gravel intermixed with loess)

                   Ellisforde (windblown loess over lucustrine sediments)

planted: planted 2016 (RockBar), 1998 (Seven Hills), 2003 (McClellan Estate)

harvest: Sept. 9, 2021

whole cluster: 30%

elevage: 14 months sur lie (6 months without sulfur) Avg. barrel age 8-10 years

bottled: Dec. 16, 2022, without fining,13.6% Alc.


93 pts Vinous Media – Eric Guido
The 2021 Cabernet Franc is a model of purity, with a varietal bouquet of green pepper, dried roses and black raspberries. This is softly textured yet nervy, with zesty red berry fruits propelled by vibrant acidity as chalky minerals collect toward the close. This finishes with amazing freshness yet potent, with a spicy flourish as round tannins frame the experience beautifully.  - By Eric Guido on January 2024
 
92 pts Wine Advocate – Erin Brooks
The 2021 Cabernet Franc is crunchy and super fresh, reminiscent of Cabernet Franc grown in the Loire Valley, despite maintaining generous Oregon fruit character. Grapes come from self-rooted vines planted from 1998-2016, and the wine was crafted with around 40% whole clusters and matured for 14 months. It features bright red cherries with accents of fresh tobacco leaves, woodsmoke, forest floor and truffle. The medium-bodied palate has a surprisingly concentrated core of savory red fruit. It boasts vibrant acidity and a pleasant bite of chalky tannins that, rather than sticking to the palate, fade into a long, easygoing and spicy finish. This is dangerously easy to drink and will pair widely at the table.