Planted along the banks for the Columbia River, at the southern tip of Horse Heaven Hills AVA, Alder Ridge Vineyard’s site selection is second to none. Benefiting from the warmer continental climate of Columbia Valley’s growing season, but with cooling effects from the proximity of the river, high winds from the gorge, and large drops in nighttime temperatures- creates a beautiful balance of enough heat to optimally ripen, but cool enough to retain the fruit’s vibrancy.
This Cabernet Franc was sourced from Alder Ridge Vineyard’s Block 4, which is settled at high elevations along the western bluffs. This location, along with the high winds from the gorge, allow the grape skins to thicken, resulting in highly concentrated flavors.
If there was a wine that showcased King’s North minimalistic approach to winemaking, with the goal of developing flavors from the grape/vineyard rather than the winemaker, this is it. The grape shines through this wine with inherent flavors of raspberry, green bell pepper and clove. If you enjoy a truly earthy and herbaceous wine, look no further than this Cabernet Franc.
One hundred percent destemmed after hand sorting, the grapes were split into two ferments which completed prolonged cold soaks before yeast inoculation. After ferment, the wine was basket pressed into four barrels (one being an old 450L). Cellar aged for 18 months before bottling. The result was a balanced Cab Franc with medium body, deep & complex flavors and a lasting finish. Enjoy now or bottle age for ten years.
