Among the many wines was one of my go-to favorites, Famille Grosbois Chinon Vielle Vigne 2007 (importer Martin Scott Wines) that sells for $17. I also enjoyed the Chateau de Coulaine “Bonnaventure” 2006 ($23, importer Skurnik). Both are exceptionally well balanced and characterized by lush red and black fruit and balanced spice. Jean-Maurice Raffault Chinon 2005 Picasses (importer V0S) was quite extracted and had an unexpected finish of bitter chocolate. Chateau de Vaugaudry offered a Plessis-Gerbault 2003 Chinon that was substantial and full-bodied enough to stand up to grilled steak (Frank Johnson Selections, $20).
I very much liked the USA wines, especially the Schneider Vineyards Cabernet Franc La Cloche 2005, which sells for $60 (Schneider Selections). The flavors were exceptionally balanced, delicate, and well crafted. The Wolffer Estate Vineyards Caya Caberet Franc 2005 ($40, importer Winebow) was just delectable; red, jammy, medium-bodied, and versatile enough to go with everything from lamb to a composed summer salad.
Felidia’s team put together a great multi-course lunch with an entrée of meat pie and delicious pasta dish of risotto in a gorgeous purple beet sauce. What surprised and delighted me most was the salad of briefly braised radicchio and endive with thin apple slivers and blue cheese that went surprisingly well with the Cabernet Franc.
If you would like to experience the world of Cabernet Franc, I suggest you befriend a local wine store and ask the clerk to find you samples of this varietal from various regions in France and the USA to compare their styles. Either way, I’m sure you will find this charming wine fresh, affordable, enchanting, and versatile to sip every day.
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