2002 Cabernet Franc
Palate
Pretty red fruit, fresh berry and pomegranate seed; medium bodied, very quaffable with a dry finish.
Aromas
Raspberry, violet and fresh tobacco.
Food Pairings
White sausages such a boudin, mild cheeses and coq au vin.
Vineyard
Glen Manor Vineyard (63%), Warren County is on the western slope of the Blue Ridge about 7 miles west of Linden Vineyards at an elevation of 1,100 feet. The deep, fertile soils give roundness. The vines are 7 years old and trained on the French Lyre system.
Hardscrabble Vineyard (37%), Fauquier County on top of the Blue Ridge at 1,300 to 1,400 feet with an eastern to southern slope. Well-drained, granitic mineral soils give cherry and raspberry character and good structure. Vine ages from 12 to 19 years.
Vintage
A hot, dry summer and early fall gave way to cool, rainy conditions in October. The red wine grapes had good ripeness, but lacked concentration because of the rain. Harvest was from October 14 to November 1, 2002.
Winemaking
Grapes were double sorted before and then after destemming. Whole berry fermentation and early pressing gives the wine its pretty aromatics and supple texture. Aged in 60% French oak, 20% American oak, and 20% Hungarian oak for 14 months. 83% Cabernet Franc, 12% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. 866 cases produced.
Linden Vineyards / Our Wines / 2002 Vintage | 2002 Cabernet Franc