2008 Boete, Cabernet Franc Reserve, Saunders Vineyard Estate, Carmel Valley.
A beautiful and silky Franc from my hometown in Carmel Valley, the 2008 Boete Reserve is showing extremely well right now with loads of pretty fruit, nice French oak notes and good verve and length. A long time fan of the Saunders and their hillside vineyards that sit high above the Carmel River a mile or so past the Carmel Valley Village, this vintage is maybe the most elegant and focused to date and is drinking well with black cherry, red currants and mixed berry fruits, cedar spice, mineral notes, cassis, mocha and sweet herbs with a hint of pepper and salted caramels. There is some strawberry liqueur and anise on the finish that adds to the pleasure and lingers on. This round and smooth Cabernet Franc is not as full bore as has been the case in the past, but the refined tannins and elegance are much more welcome and the beginnings of terroir and over all balance make this wine a real winner, especially at the price. This small family run vineyard is one to watch and I admire the direction and winemaking touch more than ever, bravo and kudos all round.
($26 Est.) 92+ Points, grapelive