Cornerstone Cellars
Stepping Stone Cabernet Franc
Napa Valley, California, USA
Funky vegetal nose, opened up to a nice black cherry, tobacco, prune delivery with some Mediterranean spices added in. Cool year profile.
Funky vegetal nose, opened up to a nice black cherry, tobacco, prune delivery with some Mediterranean spices added in. Cool year profile.
May 26th, 2018Nice smooth. Nutmeg. Blackberry, figs.
Nice smooth. Nutmeg. Blackberry, figs.
Sep 17th, 2017I don't see a lot of varietally-labeled Cab Franc coming out of the Napa Valley. And it's a different animal altogether from the CFs from the Loire Valley or even from Washington State. Expect a wine that is richer, more robust and concentrated, with a very nearly opaque garnet robe and enveloping notes of black cherries, plum skins, violets, dark chocolate shavings, and cigar box. On the palate, it's quite smooth and lush, but there is that telltale acidity that Cab Franc has on its own, lending lift and vibrancy that follows through to the finish. 14.7% ABV | Sample
I don't see a lot of varietally-labeled Cab Franc coming out of the Napa Valley. And it's a different animal altogether from the CFs from the Loire Valley or even from Washington State. Expect a wine that is richer, more robust and concentrated, with a very nearly opaque garnet robe and enveloping notes of black cherries, plum skins, violets, dark chocolate shavings, and cigar box. On the palate, it's quite smooth and lush, but there is that telltale acidity that Cab Franc has on its own, lending lift and vibrancy that follows through to the finish. 14.7% ABV | Sample
1 person found it helpfulJan 24th, 2016
This pairs well with another glass!
This pairs well with another glass!
1 person found it helpfulNov 29th, 20132013 - very nice Chenin with some substance and charm.
2013 - very nice Chenin with some substance and charm.
Sep 26th, 2015
The ‘12 Stepping Stone Napa Valley Black Label Cabernet Franc is inky dark and big on the blueberry aromas. Cinnamon and nutmeg add a festive note. The palate shows a decidedly savory aspect of the dark fruit. Minerals, earth and black olive notes add complexity and provide a great backdrop for that bold fruit display. The wine also has great tannic structure and a freshness that's a joy to find in a red wine.
The ‘12 Stepping Stone Napa Valley Black Label Cabernet Franc is inky dark and big on the blueberry aromas. Cinnamon and nutmeg add a festive note. The palate shows a decidedly savory aspect of the dark fruit. Minerals, earth and black olive notes add complexity and provide a great backdrop for that bold fruit display. The wine also has great tannic structure and a freshness that's a joy to find in a red wine.
Jul 22nd, 2015
A lot of green pepper on the nose and palate. Again, I think this one needs time open. Some age will do it some good as well. Nice wine though for the price.
A lot of green pepper on the nose and palate. Again, I think this one needs time open. Some age will do it some good as well. Nice wine though for the price.
Jan 24th, 2015Cab Franc doesn't get the respect it deserves
Cab Franc doesn't get the respect it deserves
Oct 26th, 2014
Nose is very Napa. But also mineral and not a hint of green. Mouth is plush with nice ripeness (not too ripe for Ca but would be like an 2003, 2009 in Saumur) and good acidity. Needs to air out a bit. Palate better than nose out of the gates.
Nose is very Napa. But also mineral and not a hint of green. Mouth is plush with nice ripeness (not too ripe for Ca but would be like an 2003, 2009 in Saumur) and good acidity. Needs to air out a bit. Palate better than nose out of the gates.
Oct 5th, 2014