Wines Tasted - February 26, 2010

Pine Ridge Vineyards - Cabernet Franc - Trois Cuvee - Napa - 2001 - (Classically Styled) - $36 - A transparent ruby wine fading to a pink rim with a clear miniscus. Aromas of leather, tobacco, spice box and green peppercorns bolster black cherry, currant and plum fruits. The palette is dry and medium bodied with fleshy/dried fruits as well as a dustyness and earthyness redolent of Bordeaux or Rioja. For the old world wine drinker looking for virtues in a new world wine. Drink now thru 2012.
Pine Ridge Vineyards - Cabernet Franc - Trois Cuvee - Napa - 2002 - (Modern) - $36 - Quite a difference a year makes! Clear deep ruby with a thick pink rim. Obviously higher alcohol than the 2001(14.7% vs. 14.1%). and more complexity with: brown butter, fresh toffee and molasses notes supporting floral black cherry and black plum. The mouth is expansive and lush. Filled with butter toffee and plum skin as well as an afirmation of red flowers and blackstrap molasses. Medium-full bodied, moderate+ tannin and long in the finish. Drink now or keep until 2015! A big wine still.

Enjoyed these with: Braised Beef Brisket and Tomato/Chile Mole.