Austin Hope Cabernet Franc 2021
This wine shows why Austin has become a champion of Cabernet Franc from select areas of Paso Robles, where it displays immense potential. Deep, layered and elegantly structured, this is an age-worthy Cabernet Franc that captivates the senses and stirs the imagination. A passion project from Austin Hope—and masterful rendition of a relatively unsung Bordeaux variety.
Vineyard Notes:
The 2021 growing season was very typical through early spring with warm days and cool nights. Early summer through harvest gave us some unexpected heatwaves but plenty of marine breezes and mild weather prevailed. The result was a slight delay of harvest while we waited for acidity, pH and brix to balance creating mature flavors.
Winemaking Notes:
After harvest, the lot was fermented in a stainless-steel tank for 10-14 days. Extended macerations and carefully managed pump overs enhanced the extraction of color and tannin. The lot was aged for 6 months in 100% neutral French and American Oak. The wine was racked only once during its cellar life where the blend was moved to 20% new French Oak. The final racking occurred just prior to filtering and bottling in mid-July of 2022.
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Vintage
2021
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Varietal
Cabernet Franc
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Appellation
Paso Robles
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Alcohol
15%
