Not your typical Cabernet Franc, but still a fantastic offering from Hester Creek…
Name: Hester Creek Cabernet Franc Reserve Block 3
Vintage: 2009
Producer: Hester Creek
Region/Country: Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Grape Varietal(s): Cabernet Franc
Consumed: At home
Recommended By: A gift from a trusted source
Cost: $28.99 CAD
Bottle Presentation: Distinctive, classy label, with nice artistic touches. Love the colour combination, too.
Appearance: Medium ruby-garnet
Nose: Pronounced nose, with smoky, hickory, mocha, and Thompson raisin notes.
Taste: A dry, light-bodied Cabernet Franc, with medium, grippy tannins and high acidity. Predominant flavors included strawberry jam, dark plums, smoked Applewood cheddar cheese, and white pepper. Some cedar and earthy notes also emerged.
Finish: Medium-long, earthy finish.
Overall Impression: Although not classic in terms of Cabernet Franc, we adored this wine, another outstanding offering from Hester Creek. We enjoyed the layered flavours, especially the smoky and hickory notes, as well as the structure and balance. It Cabernet Franc paired well with a selection of Québec cheeses, and it would beautifully accompany an array of red meats, such as lamb, duck, and beef. We can’t wait to get our hands on another bottle next time we are in British Columbia.
Rating (from 70 to 100): 90/100
Value: 3.5/5