2019 St Francis, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma

ABOUT THE WINE
Established in 1971 by Joe Founder, St. Francis has reflected the finest mountain and valley vineyards in and around Sonoma County for over 50 years.
Today, the vineyards of St. Francis are farmed per Certified Sustainable standards. Their estate vineyards present a stunning diversity as they are scattered around Sonoma Valley and the famous Russian River Valley, each with diverse compositions of limestone, loam, clay and black & red volcanic soils. They also buy fruit from some of the oldest vineyards in the region, farming beautifully gnarly old vine Zinfandel, by nurturing their long-standing relationships for decades.

TASTING NOTES
The fruit was sourced from estate vineyards in the Russian River Valley and from various top-quality vineyards in Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley. An expressively quintessential example of California Cabernet Sauvignon, the dark fruit characteristics of chocolate-laden cassis, blackberry, bramble and dark plums lead to liquorice, sage and subtle green pepper savouriness, together with the spice and the toast of the oak leading to a smooth and warm finish. Aged in 20% new oak barrels for 18 months. 

FOOD PAIRING
Beef Wellington or Rack of Lamb with rosemary roasted potatoes 

FRIARWOOD SAYS
St. Francis’ gorgeous mission-style estate and Tasting Room building is in the heart of the valley surrounded by estate-owned vineyards. Their bell tower, pictured on their labels houses a 1,000-pound bronze bell cast by the Marinelli Foundry in Italy. It chimes every hour and can be heard throughout the valley.