Tasting Profile

A little tight upon release, the 2008 Blueline Cabernet Franc has come out of its shell in its seventh year. Enchanting floral aromatics of violets, tamarind, and black olive weave with roasted espresso and subtle graphite minerality. Its younger dark fruit characteristics of cassis and black currant are still very much intact. Yet, as it has aged, the bright acidity has brought forward some additional layers of red fruit notes of cranberry that were not present upon release. It possesses striking richness, despite its tight center core, along with a vibrant freshness and sleek texture. The presence of acidity helps lift the stunning aromatics and its floral characteristics drive through the mid-palate adding complexity to the red and dark fruit that lingers through an extended finish.

Cellaring Potential

As noted, the tight center core of the 2008 BLCF made it less expressive than the ‘06 and ‘07 upon release.  (It reminded me of the 1999 Hourglass Estate in this regard.) Yet, over time, the structural weave and bright acidity have proven to be very important as the wine has aged beautifully, gaining more exotic layers over time. We think it has plenty left in the tank and will get more interesting over the next 10 to 12 years.

~ 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
2007 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc
2006 Blueline Estate Cabernet Franc