Mendocino is today's stop for the 12 Days of Cabernet Franc. An ever increasing number of quality releases are coming out of this area. Today's selections come from Yorkville Cellars. Their vineyards have been certified organic since 1986. Yorkville Cellars focus is on Bordeaux varietals. Their winemaker has been with them close to 15 years, and previously was at La Crema, among others. At Yorkville Cellars he makes two Cabernet Francs.
The first wine is a Rosé of Cabernet Franc. The 2007 Rosé de Franc is made from 100% Estate fruit and all varietal. Aging was done for 9 months, in 
neutral oak. The suggested retail price for this offering is $18.
This Rosé opens with a lovely nose featuring raspberry, rose petals and light hint of citrus peel. Berry and citrus notes continue through the palate. The finish is crisp, clean, spicy, and lingering, with just a subtle pleasing touch of tartness. This wine is dry and has excellent acidity.
Quality Rosé displays attributes of both red and white wines, This Rosé of Cabernet Franc certainly succeeds on that score. It's aromatic, refreshing and well structured. While I drink Rosé year round, having this example from Yorkville Cellars has me pining for summer, or at least spring, which is mercifully around the corner. This wine will pair well with a cornucopia of different foods, and also drinks quite nicely on its own.
The second wine is the Yorkville Cellars 2006 Cabernet Franc. 100% of the fruit is sourced from their Estate Vineyards. 10% Malbec was blended in. Aging occurred in French oak barrels for 20 months. The suggested retail price for this Franc is $25.
Plum, violets and a hint of chicory fills the nose of this wine. This Franc is medium bodied and the palate features extensive Bing cherry, a touch of leather, and copious spice notes. Apricot and light lemon zest notes also emerge. Mineral and continued biting spice characteristics are prominent on the finish. This wine is balanced and has firm acidity. This selection will be a good match for a range of foods, Paella, specifically comes to mind as an excellent choice.
What I liked about these to Francs is that they are each full flavored, and offer sufficient complexity, and value, for their price points. Good dry Rosé is of particular interest to me, and this example from Yorkville Cellars, is well crafted, delicious and also fun. The 2006 Franc stands out to me specifically because of the apricot and lemon zest components. While subtle, these characteristics strike me as unique. These are the first wines I've had from Yorkville Cellars, they certainly won't be the last.
Up Next: 12 Days of Cabernet Franc Continues