Cave Dog - Merlot, Cabernet Franc

DESCRIPTION / TASTING NOTE

This blend of 58% Merlot and 42% Cabernet Franc from “Beau Terroir,” a vineyard in southwest Napa Valley, could easily be confused for a high end Right Bank Bordeaux from an exceptional vintage. It’s that good. All the expected Bordeaux descriptions rattle off my typing fingers: tobacco, black currant, blackberry, pencil shavings, cedar and sandalwood. The fruit is a smidge more pronounced than its old world counterparts because, hey, it’s Napa. Ultimately the vineyard speaks the loudest with its savory, soily, spicy character showing in the wine. Medium bodied, acidity skates about, fine tannins, complementary French oak. As good as it is now, its best years are ahead of it.

ABOUT PRODUCER

Established in 2014, Cave Dog Napa Valley's roots reach much further in Napa, as well as worldwide. Founder, Michael Havens - originally from Chicago where most of his friends are invested to beer - grew a deep interest in the nuances of wine.

Havens is a renowned champion of Cabernet Franc and Merlot all over Napa Valley - having been the creator of Havens Wine Cellars in 1984 to 2008. An unwavering longing for tradition brought him back to the vineyards he perfectly knows and reveres. Throughout his career, much has changed in Napa Valley; but Cave Dog continues his focus on graceful, elegant expressions of his wines.