Current Vintage Overview

The 2007 vintage was one of the more balanced, stronger vintages of the first decade of the new millennium, reminiscent of the growing conditions of 2002. Our second year with the vineyard proved to be a breakout vintage as the ‘07 Blueline Cabernet Sauvignon would go on to place first in Fine Wine magazine’s “Napa Top 40 Cab” tasting, besting many of Napa’s elite Cabs and proving Blueline to be a major contender. The growing year was also very favorable for our Cabernet Franc which thrives in warmer, longer vintages.

Tasting Profile

The 2007 Cabernet Franc is deep in ripe, dark fruit character with a striking richness. Intoxicating high-tone notes of Asian Five Spice and candied violets accent the perfumed aromatics. Gone are the toasty vanilla elements of barrel toast that were very present in this wine upon release, replaced by a more exotic green cardamom spice and black currant with a faint mineral hint of gun powder. Good acidity assures the vibrancy indicative of Cabernet Franc at its best. The floral underscore carries through the palate to lend complexity to the dark fruit which lingers through an extended finish. Tannins are sleek and polished with supple texture.  

Cellaring Potential  

The 2007 BLCF retains more brightness and greater purity of fruit than the 2006 at the stage. Will it shut down as it approaches 10 years to transition with more tertiary layers, or transition smoothly? Impossible to know at this stage, but it is showing quite well now. Our recommendation is to drink now, or wait until 2017/18 in the event it closes up during its transition at around 10 years of age.  

~ Jeff Smith, January 2016

Other Vintages

2015 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2014 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2013 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2012 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2011 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2010 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2009 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2008 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2006 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc