Frank Family Cabernet: A Guide to Napa Valley's Finest Red Wine

Frank Family Vineyards is a winery located in Napa Valley, California, that is known for producing high-quality wines. One of their most popular wines is the Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon, which has won numerous awards and accolades. This full-bodied red wine is made from carefully selected grapes grown in the heart of Napa Valley, and it is known for its rich, complex flavor profile.

The Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is highly sought after by wine enthusiasts and collectors alike. It is known for its deep ruby color, and its aroma of black cherry, cassis, and vanilla. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied and rich, with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and coffee. The tannins are firm, but well-integrated, and the finish is long and satisfying.

Overall, the Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is sure to impress even the most discerning of wine drinkers. It is a wine that is perfect for special occasions, or for enjoying with a nice meal. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, the Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a wine that is definitely worth trying.

History of Frank Family Vineyards

Founding and Development

Frank Family Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Calistoga, Napa Valley, California. The winery was founded in 1992 by former Disney executive Richard Harvey Frank and his wife, Leslie Frank. Richard Frank had previously purchased the historic Larkmead Winery in 1990, which is now the home of Frank Family Vineyards. The Larkmead Winery is listed on the National Register of Historical Places and is a Point of Historical Interest.

The Franks began producing wine in 1992 and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality wines. They started with a small production of Chardonnay, and then expanded to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Sangiovese, and a sparkling wine made using the traditional Methode Champenoise.

Significant Milestones

In 2000, the Frank Family Vineyards property was devastated by a massive electrical fire, destroying the winery and damaging the vineyards. However, the Franks were determined to rebuild, and they did so with the help of renowned architect Howard Backen. The new winery was completed in 2007 and features state-of-the-art facilities for winemaking and hospitality.

Over the years, Frank Family Vineyards has received numerous accolades and awards for their wines. In 2015, they released the Patriarch, a limited-release Cabernet Sauvignon made in honor of Richard Frank's 98-year-old father and World War II veteran, Hy Frank. The Patriarch is made with grapes sourced from the Winston Hill vineyard in Rutherford and has received critical acclaim.

Today, Frank Family Vineyards continues to produce exceptional wines, and their tasting room in Calistoga is a popular destination for wine lovers visiting Napa Valley.

Understanding Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most widely planted grape varieties in the world and is known for its full-bodied, tannic structure and aging potential. In this section, we will explore the characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon, grape growing and terroir, and the winemaking process.

Characteristics of Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a thick-skinned grape that produces wines with high tannins, acidity, and structure. It is often blended with other varieties such as Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc to balance out its intensity. The varietal composition of Cabernet Sauvignon can vary depending on the winemaker's preference and the region where the grapes are grown.

Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its complex aromas and flavors. Typical aromas and flavors include black fruit, cassis, currant, cherry, chocolate, espresso, cedar, and vanilla. When ripe, the grapes produce a wine that is thick, juicy, and has a long finish.

Grape Growing and Terroir

Cabernet Sauvignon is grown in many wine regions around the world, but it is most commonly associated with the Bordeaux region of France and the Napa Valley region of California. The grape thrives in soil that is well-drained and has low fertility. The climate also plays a significant role in the grape's development, with warm, dry summers and cool nights being ideal.

The Winemaking Process

The winemaking process for Cabernet Sauvignon can vary depending on the winemaker's preference, but it typically involves aging the wine in oak barrels to add complexity and flavor. The oak can impart flavors such as vanilla, cedar, and spice to the wine. The winemaker may also choose to blend the wine with other varieties to balance out its intensity.

In conclusion, Cabernet Sauvignon is a complex and intense grape variety that produces wines with high tannins, acidity, and structure. It is often blended with other varieties to balance out its intensity, and it thrives in well-drained soil and warm, dry climates. The winemaking process typically involves aging the wine in oak barrels to add complexity and flavor.

The Frank Family Cabernet Experience

Frank Family Vineyards is known for producing rich and complex wines in the Napa Valley region. Among their most popular offerings is the Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon, which has earned a reputation for being a classic and well-balanced wine that is perfect for any occasion.

Tasting Notes

The Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a medium to full-bodied wine that is characterized by its complex flavor profile. On the nose, the wine is fresh and tart, with notes of blackberry, black currant, and sandalwood. On the palate, the wine opens up to reveal flavors of black cherry, espresso, and nutmeg, with a hint of cedar and dusty earth. The wine has a spicy finish with silky tannins that make it a pleasure to drink.

Vintage Variation

The Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a vintage wine, which means that the flavor profile can vary from year to year. The 2018 vintage is soft and supple, with currant and blackberries at its core. A mix of cinnamon and dark chocolate play well against its savory components of dried herb and dusty earth. The 2019 vintage is equally impressive, with a balanced acidity and a rich, complex flavor profile that is characterized by black cherry and blackberry flavors.

Food Pairing Suggestions

The Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is particularly well suited to rich, hearty meals, such as steak or roasted lamb. The wine also pairs well with spicy foods, such as Indian or Mexican cuisine. For a lighter pairing, try pairing the wine with a charcuterie board or a selection of aged cheeses.

In conclusion, the Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic Napa Cab that is rich, complex, and well-balanced. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, this wine is sure to impress.

Wine Portfolio and Offerings

Frank Family Vineyards is known for its award-winning wines and exceptional tasting experiences. The winery offers a diverse portfolio of wines, including Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Cabernet Sauvignon, among others. Here are some of the highlights of the winery's wine offerings:

Frank Family Reserve Wines

Frank Family Vineyards' Reserve wines are the winery's most exclusive offerings. These wines are made from the best grapes harvested from the winery's estate vineyards. The Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout wine, with a rich, complex flavor profile that includes notes of tobacco, blackberry, and espresso. The wine has received high scores from wine critics, including James Suckling and Jeb Dunnuck.

Varietal Diversity

Frank Family Vineyards produces a wide range of varietals, including Petite Verdot, Sangiovese, and Zinfandel. The winery's sparkling wines are also worth trying, with a crisp, refreshing flavor that makes them perfect for celebrations.

Special Editions and Collaborations

Frank Family Vineyards occasionally releases special edition wines that are only available for a limited time. These wines are often collaborations with other wineries or organizations. For example, the winery has partnered with K9s for Warriors to release a special edition Cabernet Sauvignon, with a portion of the proceeds going to support the organization's mission.

Overall, Frank Family Vineyards offers a diverse and impressive portfolio of wines. The winery's commitment to quality grape growing and harvest dates is evident in the exceptional flavor profiles of its wines. The winery's location in Napa Valley, with its many AVAs and sub-AVAs, allows for a wide range of grape varieties to be grown, resulting in a diverse and flavorful selection of wines.

Vineyard Practices and Sustainability

Frank Family Vineyards is committed to sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices. The vineyard's location in Napa Valley and Carneros provides a unique terroir that allows the grapes to thrive. The vineyard team uses innovative techniques to ensure that the grapes are grown in a sustainable manner.

Sustainable Viticulture

Frank Family Vineyards practices sustainable viticulture to ensure the health of the soil, vines, and surrounding ecosystem. The vineyard team uses cover crops, compost, and natural pest management to reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The team also uses precision irrigation to conserve water and reduce runoff.

The vineyard team takes a holistic approach to vineyard management, considering the impact of their practices on the soil, climate, and ecosystem. They use a combination of organic and biodynamic practices to promote soil health and biodiversity. By nurturing the soil, the vines can produce grapes with unique flavors and aromas that reflect the terroir.

Innovative Techniques

Frank Family Vineyards uses innovative techniques to ensure that the grapes are grown in a sustainable manner. The vineyard team uses a combination of technology and traditional farming practices to optimize the growing conditions for the grapes.

For example, the vineyard team uses a weather station to monitor the microclimate of the vineyard. This allows them to adjust irrigation and other farming practices to optimize grape quality. The team also uses drones to monitor the health of the vines and identify potential issues before they become problems.

Frank Family Vineyards also uses sustainable winemaking practices to reduce their environmental impact. For example, the winery uses solar power to generate electricity, and they recycle water and other materials to reduce waste.

Overall, Frank Family Vineyards is committed to sustainable viticulture and winemaking practices. By using innovative techniques and taking a holistic approach to vineyard management, the vineyard team is able to produce high-quality grapes while minimizing their environmental impact.

Visiting Frank Family Vineyards

If you're a wine enthusiast looking for a unique experience, a visit to Frank Family Vineyards is a must. This winery, located in the heart of Napa Valley, offers a range of tours and tastings that allow visitors to sample some of the best wines in the region.

Tours and Tastings

Frank Family Vineyards offers a variety of tours and tastings to suit every taste and budget. The most popular option is the Estate Tasting, which includes a selection of current release wines paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. For those who want a more in-depth experience, the Vineyard Tour and Tasting offers a guided tour of the vineyards followed by a tasting of limited production wines.

Wine Club and Membership

For those who want to enjoy Frank Family wines on a regular basis, the winery offers a Wine Club membership. Members receive regular shipments of wine, as well as access to exclusive events and discounts on purchases. The winery also offers a subscription service, which allows customers to receive regular shipments of their favorite wines without committing to a full membership.

Richard Harvey Frank, the founder of Frank Family Vineyards, has built a reputation for producing some of the best wines in Napa Valley. The winery's Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly renowned, with Wine Spectator awarding it a score of 93 points.

Overall, a visit to Frank Family Vineyards is a must for anyone looking to experience the best of Napa Valley wines. With a variety of tours and tastings on offer, as well as a Wine Club membership and subscription service, there's something for everyone at this world-class winery.

Awards and Recognition

Critical Acclaim

Frank Family Vineyards' Cabernet Sauvignon has received numerous accolades and critical acclaim over the years. The winery is known for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in Napa Valley. James Suckling, a renowned wine critic, awarded the 2019 RHF Cabernet Sauvignon 94 points, describing it as "bold and complex." The wine has aromas of boysenberry, oak notes, and dried pepper, while flavors of black currant, fresh blackberry, and dusty earth linger on the palate.

Jeb Dunnuck, another well-known wine critic, gave the 2018 RHF Cabernet Sauvignon 92 points, calling it "a beautiful wine." He noted that it has a "medium to full-bodied, elegant, seamless texture" and "outstanding length."

Industry Ratings

Frank Family Vineyards' Cabernet Sauvignon has also received high ratings from various industry publications. Wine Spectator named the 2018 RHF Cabernet Sauvignon as one of the top 100 wines of 2023, ranking it at #61. The wine is named in honor of Frank Family's founder Richard Harvey Frank and sees small additions of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Cabernet Franc. It is soft and supple, with currant and blackberries at its core.

In addition, the winery's Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon has received critical acclaim. The 2021 vintage is composed of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 5% Petite Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc. It has an acid level of 0.6g/100ml, a pH of 3.68, and an alcohol percentage of 14.5%. This wine is a collectible red wine that is sure to impress any wine connoisseur.

Frank Family Vineyards is located in the Stags Leap District of Napa Valley, which is known for producing some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon in the world. The district gained international recognition in 1976 when a Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the famous Judgment of Paris blind wine tasting. Since then, the district has become synonymous with high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.

In conclusion, Frank Family Vineyards' Cabernet Sauvignon has received critical acclaim and high industry ratings. The winery's commitment to producing high-quality wines has earned it a reputation as one of the best in Napa Valley.

Investing in Frank Family Wines

Frank Family Vineyards is a well-known brand in the wine industry, producing rich and juicy wines from the Napa Valley region. Their Cabernet Sauvignon is a particularly popular choice among wine enthusiasts. In this section, we will discuss the collectability and aging potential of Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon, as well as market trends and value.

Collectability and Aging Potential

Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a collectible red wine that has both power and grace. It is a wine that can be enjoyed now or aged for a few years to enhance its flavor profile. The wine has a sweet and juicy taste that is sure to please any palate. Its aging potential is quite impressive, and it can be aged for up to 20 years or more in the right conditions.

Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most prestigious wines in the Napa Valley region. Its market value has been steadily increasing over the years, making it a great investment for wine collectors. The wine is highly sought after, and its limited production makes it even more valuable.

According to Wine-Searcher, the average price for a bottle of Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is around $60. However, older vintages can fetch much higher prices at auctions and specialty wine shops. In 2022, a bottle of Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 sold for $400 at auction.

Investing in Frank Family Cabernet Sauvignon is a wise choice for wine collectors who want to add a prestigious and collectible wine to their collection. Its aging potential and market value make it a valuable asset that can be enjoyed for years to come.

Community and Philanthropy

Frank Family Vineyards is not only known for producing some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon wines in Napa Valley, but also for their commitment to community and philanthropy. The winery has a long history of giving back to both local and national organizations that align with their values.

Local and National Contributions

One of the organizations that Frank Family Vineyards has supported is K9s For Warriors, a nonprofit that provides service dogs to veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and other invisible wounds of war. In 2018, Frank Family Vineyards donated $25,000 to K9s For Warriors, and they continue to support the organization through their annual "Frank for a Cause" campaign. The campaign benefits a different charity each year, and in 2021, it will benefit the Humane Society of the United States in memory of Winemaker Todd Graff's beloved rescue dog, Bristol.

Richard Harvey Frank, the proprietor of Frank Family Vineyards, is also involved in philanthropy outside of the winery. He serves on the board of directors for the Napa Valley Vintners, a nonprofit trade association that promotes and protects the Napa Valley appellation. Additionally, he is a member of the board of trustees for the Culinary Institute of America, a nonprofit culinary college with campuses in California, New York, and Texas.

Frank Family Vineyards has donated close to $100,000 to deserving charities across the nation, including Feeding America, Autism Speaks, and the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Their commitment to community and philanthropy is a reflection of their values and dedication to making a positive impact in the world.