2019 La Jota Cabernet Franc
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Tasting notes
Still based on Bill Smith's original block from the 1970s, plus some additional plantings, the 2019 Cabernet Franc Howell Mountain is 100% Cabernet Franc. Gentle florals and herbal notes of bay leaf and sage appear on the nose, adding savory complexity to the black cherries and red raspberries. Medium to full-bodied, silky, fine and elegant, this is a perennial favorite, drinkable on release and for a decade or more afterward.
Critic scores
Average Score
James Suckling
Jeb Dunnuck
More reviews and scores
This is soft and round with juicy fruit. Blackberry, stone and gunflint. Full-bodied with firm tannins and an intense finish. Opens at the end with savory character. Green olives. Drinkable now, but better in 2025.
The 2019 Cabernet Franc is fabulous. Rich, deep and soaring in its aromatics, the Franc is loaded with pedigree. Readers will find a potent, structured wine that needs a lot of time. The 2019 is a blend taken from both the W.S. Keyes and La Jota properties.
Also beautiful, the 2019 Cabernet Franc checks in as 100% varietal that was raised in 67% new French oak. Inky purple in color, with a brilliant perfume of raspberries, cassis, spring flowers, scorched earth, and graphite, it hits the palate with medium-bodied richness, a terrific sense of elegance and purity, ripe yet present tannins, and a great finish. It's going to benefit from 3-5 years of bottle age and shine for two decades.