Napa, CA, September 1, 2020 – One of the few wineries in Napa Valley to specialize in 100% Cabernet Franc, Lang & Reed will release a 2016 North Coast Cabernet Franc on September 1st. Joining their line-up of elegant and expansive Cabernet Francs and energetic Chenin Blancs, the 2016 North Coast Cabernet Franc is a worthy follow-up in a continuing string of twenty-two vintages of this singular and unique wine.
Sourcing from passionate wine growers and vineyards in very diverse growing regions, to make this 2016 North Coast Cabernet Franc even more interesting, the vintage includes grapes from the T bar T Ranch in Sonoma County’s Alexander Valley, as well as a pinch of spice and structure from the famed Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard in Napa Valley. Both of these vineyards are planted with the Entav 214 Cabernet Franc clone, from the Loire Valley. This clone produces fruit that, combined with high altitude vineyards located in Lake County, offers a very broad palate of aromas and flavors that are rich and satisfying, while still displaying the exuberant expression of Cabernet Franc known to Lang & Reed. The 2016 North Coast Cabernet Franc has a deep saturated red color alongside the typical hint of blue/violet on the rim. This vintage is a solid powerhouse, with a combination of dark berry fruit and ‘garrigue,’ a heady mix of herbs like lavender, sage, and rosemary. On the palate, the aromas are matched with moderately full flavors and a firm structure, making the impression long and pleasant. The combination of all this creates a great wine to quaff with a mixed grill, yet one that also has the persistence to age very well for a couple more years.
Exploring the distinct charms of Cabernet Franc, Lang & Reed’s wine producing Skupny family has been creating expressive wines that are enjoyable to drink since 1996. They have long been inspired by the often overlooked grape and passionate about giving it an opportunity to shine; true to type, pure in flavor. Winemaking is a form of storytelling for the Skupny family, and Lang & Reed’s wines tell a tale of a multi-generational family business and their wonderful wine-filled life together. Recently opening a tasting salon right off the hub of St Helena’s Main Street, Lang & Reed’s Tracey, John, Reed and Megan Skupny are offering intimate, appointment only tastings; allowing visitors to get to know the family behind the brand while they impart their affection for Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. To learn more about Lang & Reed, visit their website (https://langandreed.com/) and follow them on Instagram (@langandreed) and Facebook (@langandreed)).
