2004 Crocker & Starr Cabernet Franc

($50; 15.8% alcohol, with a pH of 3.62) Bright medium ruby. Aromas of crushed blackberry, blueberry and bitter chocolate show a slightly high-toned, porty quality. Fat, lush, sweet and deep, with chocolate and licorice flavors. Conveys a powerful impression of extract but comes across as almost heavy for a wine from this producer. A very full wine with substantial ripe tannins and very good length.

Author: Stephen Tanzer

Issue: May/June 2007