2008 Howell Mountain Cabernet Franc

September Release - limited quantities available only through October 2, 2023

This 15-year release showcases the treasure that results when unique grapes and thoughtful winemaking decisions are multiplied by the passage of time. Our Cabernet Franc vines were planted in 1976 next to our century-old stone winery and have matured to a point of self-regulation, so we do not intervene with crop thinning or leaf removal. We hand-harvested the clusters into small lug boxes to prevent crushing, and then carefully hand-sorted them to ensure optimum quality. To bridle the mountain tannins, winemaker Chris Carpenter added dashes of oxygen into the wine with three splashing pump-overs during primary fermentation in stainless steel tanks.

In Napa, it is rare to find aged bottles of this chic grape variety. Our 2008 Cabernet Franc is a stunner that expresses the essence of Howell Mountain terroir with raspberry, intense minerality, black tea, and Asian spice. Only 10 cases are available of our September offer in celebration of our 125th anniversary.