Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008

With the holiday season in full swing I am tasting higher end wines.  They are great for entertaining, as gifts, and to purchase for ones self and enjoy.  Another great wine that I tasted out was Franciscan's 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon.  I enjoyed is so and it reminded me of my visit to the winery this past May ... wonderful wine.  

Franciscan 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon ($26) is from Napa Valley, California.   It is a blend of  80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 4% Syrah, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 1% Petit Verdot.  In the plastic tasting cup I was only able to detect a nose of dark cherry.  However, the flavor was complex with dark fruit, and earthiness with some chocolate and oak.  The tannins were mild and this was nicely balanced.  Customers enjoyed this.  

Winemaker's Notes:  Deep garnet color. A luscious cascade of dark fruit, including black currant, black cherry, plum, and blackberry complemented by sweet vanilla and baking spices. Flavor is rich, round, and full-bodied; layered with blackberry, cherry, dried plums, and a hint of cocoa; generous weight on the palate and smooth, mouth-filling tannins; the finish lingers with flavors of rich cassis and black cherry.