We planted our first Cabernet Franc vines in 2000. In 2002, we decided to bottle the Cabernet Franc as a single varietal more or less out of necessity, as we wanted to have another offering.
Right from the start, we decided to make it a Reserve wine by using select barrels based on taste. In 2003, we followed through and had our designer create a Reserve label for us. We experimented with different barrel manufacturers in the beginning, ultimately deciding on French oak barrels from the Radoux cooperage, which impart a slightly smokey character.
Generally speaking, Cabernet Franc has less grippy tannins than Cabernet Sauvignon and, in Colorado in particular, we can produce a fragrant wine that is fruit forward. WIth food, this wine shines. Cabernet Franc has proven popular for Bookcliff Vineyards. Since our first vintage in 2002, we received ten gold and double gold medals for ten different vintages, amongst them a Jefferson Cup, and a Best of Show at the Colorado Governor’s Cup Wine Competition.
From our staff – Kaila Mason
When someone asks me what my favorite wine is, Cabernet Franc is always on the list. I think the flavors this grape produces are unique and interesting. Fun fact: Cabernet Sauvignon is actually the offspring of Cab Franc and Sauvignon Blanc!
Bookcliff vineyards offers many great wines but one of my favorites of course is the 2019 Reserve Cabernet Franc! This grape grows especially great here in the Grand Valley. Beautiful in color with hints of vanilla and oak on the nose. It is dry, crisp, and perfect to pair with food. Creamy chicken enchiladas, ravioli, roast beef, the list goes on and on. Something everyone should give a try!
From our winemaker – Will Thompson
We produced 146 cases 2019 Cabernet Franc; we aged it in 40% 2nd fill French oak and bottled it on September 1, 2021.
Everything about our 2019 Cabernet Franc is an example of decadence. The aromatics of blackberry and baking spices are intense, while the palate delivers strong tannin and great depth with undertones of leather, tobacco to accompany strong acidity. The finish lingers in a way that reminds me of dark chocolate with a balance of roasted flavors and slight bitterness. Overall, the strength of this wine will lend itself more towards equally decadent foods to provide balance, and is a great example of Colorado’s ability to produce dramatic, extracted wines like much of the wine growing regions in the Western US.
From our club member – Chuck Price
Bookcliff’’s Cabernet Franc is one of my favorite wines! Being the genetic father of both Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, Bookcliff’s Cabernet Franc brings the strong, more full bodied foundation of the Cabernet Sauvignon but with less tannins and medium acidity, and still leads with the ever-so-slight fruit of the Merlot. In the middle there are fun explorations of black cherry, berries and currant, on a base of wood, spice and tobacco. So delicious!!
