2006 - Pulenta, Gran Cabernet Franc

The prodigious 2006 Gran Cabernet Franc is a glass-staining opaque purple. The aromatics are nearly ethereal with the complexity of a great Saint-Emilion. Exotic spices, wild blueberry, and mineral notes intertwine and mesmerize. Once on the palate, the wine is layered, plush, and voluptuous. The wine’s sweet fruit is perfectly balanced by silky tannin and the finish lasts for over a minute. It will benefit from 4-6 years of cellaring and provide pleasure through 2026. The price makes it a sensational value. Bodegas y Vinedos Hugo y Eduardo Pulenta began their venture in 1991. They still sell grapes to the likes of Catena, Cobos, and Chandon among others. In 2002, 2003, and 2005 they constructed three small winery buildings and current production is at 40-50,000 cases. They began selling in the USA market in 2008 with 20% of their production coming here. Importer: Paul Hobbs Imports, Sebastopol, CA; tel. (707) 824-9879

The year 2006 was a warm, dry one, and this Cabernet Franc from Agrelo, which spent 18 months in new French oak, enjoyed the heat. Caramel in color, it has developed very well, delivering cleansing pyrazine flavors along with dried figs, date and a hint of truffle. Loose in the mouth, where the tannins are now subdued and polymerized. Everything is right where it should be in a 14-year-old red. Might go on for a few more years, but really it’s in its sweet spot.