2023 Crossroads Cabernet Franc 750ml

2023 Crossroads Cabernet Franc 750ml

$90

The 2023 Crossroads Cabernet Franc opens with an expressive and layered profile, rising instantly from the glass with notes of wild strawberry, tart red currant, and sun-warmed black cherries. As the aromas continue to unfold, hints of dried violets, cedar shavings, and just a touch of barrel spice come into focus intertwined with the medley of fruits. Subtle undertones of cocoa nib, star anise, and dried black tea leaf add depth and charm as the wine continues to evolve. On the palate, the wine is vibrant yet elegant, shaped by finely articulated red and black fruits – ripe plum, marionberry, and fresh currant – supported by a graceful, velvety texture. Black olive tapenade, dusty graphite, and dried thyme offer savory nuances that keep the palate curious, while fine-grained tannins offer structure and balance. The finish is long, carried by gentle spice and a lingering echo of dark cocoa and herbal freshness.

The 2023 vintage was one of the longest growing seasons in more than a decade.

With steady and mild weather throughout the season, coupled with a balanced crop load, 2023 had all the hallmarks of a memorable vintage. Winter and spring rains led to saturated soil and optimal timing for budbreak. Idyllic spring weather maintained healthy canopy growth through bloom and set, while relatively cool weather throughout the growing season allowed sugar accumulation and phenolic ripeness to occur in tandem. The first pick of Cabernet Franc in Oakville occurred on October 5th, which in more recent vintages began mid- September. These extra days allowed for extended ripening in sugars, acids, and tannins – a winemaker’s dream. The fruit continued to be harvested by hand by our in-house vineyard crew over the next 4 days, with the final pick of the varietal taking place on October 9th.

Appellation

Oakville

Farming

100% Estate fruit, organically grown

Harvest Dates

Starting October 5th, lasting 4 days, 4 separate picks 

Aging

15% New French Oak

A scenic view of a vineyard with lush green grapevines, a small white utility box on a post, and a blurred hillside in the background, framed by out-of-focus green leaves in the foreground.

Winemaker Notes

The 2023 Crossroads Cabernet Franc opens with an expressive and layered profile, rising instantly from the glass with notes of wild strawberry, tart red currant, and sun-warmed black cherries. As the aromas continue to unfold, hints of dried violets, cedar shavings, and just a touch of barrel spice come into focus intertwined with the medley of fruits. Subtle undertones of cocoa nib, star anise, and dried black tea leaf add depth and charm as the wine continues to evolve. On the palate, the wine is vibrant yet elegant, shaped by finely articulated red and black fruits – ripe plum, marionberry, and fresh currant – supported by a graceful, velvety texture. Black olive tapenade, dusty graphite, and dried thyme offer savory nuances that keep the palate curious, while fine-grained tannins offer structure and balance. The finish is long, carried by gentle spice and a lingering echo of dark cocoa and herbal freshness. The 2023 Crossroads Cabernet Franc pairs beautifully with grilled, savory meats and lightly spiced vegetables, making it a versatile companion for backyard summer barbecues - and the spirited rounds of cornhole that inevitably follow.

We also recommend