There are, of course, wineries of all sizes. The next selection for the 12 Days of Cabernet Franc, comes from a Winery of the humungous variety. As far as wineries go, Clos du Bois is a juggernaut. They started in 1974 and have subsequently become a very well known name in wine. While the average consumer likely knows them for the host of wines they make in the everyday drinking price range, Clos du Bois makes wines in a number of brackets.
The 2005 Clos du Bois Alexander Valley Cabernet Franc was sourced from two specific parcels. This offering isn't available in stores and can only be acquired through their tasting room or website. 450 cases of this Franc were produced and the suggested retail price is $40.
Blackberry and plum note star in the nose of this Alexander Valley Cabernet Franc. Throughout the palate, dark, fleshy plum dominates the fruit characteristics, while fruitcake spice notes underpin them. Black tea notes kick in towards the back of the plate and lead into the finish. Leather, chicory and sweet dark chocolate fill a finish that is smooth and a bit above average in length. This wine is an excellent match for Corned beef, Pastrami or other smoked, cured meats.
What I liked best about this wine is its accessibility. For a wine that should age well for several years, it's ready to go, and expressive, from the first pour. It's also a well layered, fairly complex wine that does a good job showing off its Alexander Valley roots.
Up Next: The Cabernet Franc Keeps Coming!