Winemaker’s Note: Cabernet Franc is a parent grape of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Carménère and gives them a hint of mint or green bell pepper. Depending on where it grows, it can be lighter or bolder, but it is always tasty. Cabernet Franc is a parent to Cabernet Sauvignon. The crossing occurred
sometime during the middle 1600s around Bordeaux, France. The herbaceous character in Cabernet Franc is caused by a group of aroma compounds called methoxypyrazines or “pyrazines” for short.
On the nose: Dark and velvety with voluptuous black fruits, melded with hints of maple syrup, pomegranate molasses and aged balsamic vinegar. There are also subtle green notes or
even, dare we say, jalapeno poppers.
On the palate: This Cab Franc shows off layers of refined tannins, with cascading flavors of stewed strawberries, raspberries, bell pepper, crushed gravel and graphite. It is elegant and nicely
structured yet bold. It feels like a complete thought. An academic. Like a Professor of Architecture wearing a Yves Saint Laurent turtleneck.
Food pairing ideas: Picture it... A night at home when it’s snowing outside with a slow braised short rib or coq au vin. Slip into something more comfortable and enjoy the whole bottle. Enjoy this while listening to the sultry and enveloping music of Etta James or Ella Fitzgerald on vinyl. Hear the crackle of the vinyl and the crackle of a cozy fire.
Tech Details:
AVA
Royal Slope
Varietal Composition
100% Cabernet Franc
Vineyards
Stillwater Creek
Cases Produced
50
Alcohol %
14.8%
Volume
750 mL
About Brown Label wines:
Each vintage, we select a series of exceptional single-vineyard, single-varietal wines that showcase the unique terroir of Washington State. These "Brown Label" wines are a celebration of place, reflecting the distinct character of the land and the dedication of the growers who cultivate it. Grown from carefully chosen rows of vines rooted in thoughtfully farmed land, these bottles are born from a deep respect for the history and viticulture of each site. Our partnerships with talented farmers, built on trust and shared passion, allow us access to some of the most spectacular grapes the state has to offer. These wines are all about relationships – with the land, with the growers, and with you. Released twice a year, in November and February, these terroir-driven wines offer a true taste of Washington's diverse and exceptional vineyards.
About Stillwater Creek Vineyard:
On the steep, south-facing slopes of the Royal Slope in the Columbia Valley, Stillwater Creek Vineyard stands as a testament to the Alberg family's vision. Purchased in 1968 by Thomas A. Alberg, Sr., this 235-acre site's potential was confirmed by historical weather data in the late 1990s, leading to the first plantings in 2000 under the direction of acclaimed winemaker Mike Januik. With one of Washington's most diverse clonal selections, Stillwater Creek quickly gained recognition as a premier vineyard, particularly for red varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah. The fractured rock soils, warm days, and cool nights create ideal ripening conditions. While some grapes contribute to the acclaimed estate-grown wines of Novelty Hill winery (founded by Tom Alberg in 2000, also under Januik's direction), the majority are sought after by other top vintners, showcasing the exceptional quality of this family-owned and meticulously farmed vineyard.
