Latah Creek Reserve Cabernet Franc 2021

Mike and Natalie, a father-daughter winemaking duo, are passionate about their collection of red wines, but they also enjoy experimenting with new varieties. This enthusiasm led them to create their Reserve Program, aimed at offering small-lot, high-quality wines that are not commonly produced.  The inspiration came from Natalie’s desire to explore different varietals beyond their usual selections. By crafting 5 barrels or fewer of each distinct varietal, they ensure special care and attention is dedicated to these wines, which is why they proudly bear the Reserve label.

The Cabernet Franc varietal serves as one of the parent grapes for Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Carménère, contributing to their minty or peppery characteristics. Depending on the growing region, the resulting wine can range from light to bold. Mike and Natalie have successfully created examples of both, with a lighter version from 2011 cultivated near Wahluke Slope, and this 2021 Reserve wine representing the bold side, sourced just outside the Red Mountain border. The distinct flavors of this wine made it a perfect candidate for our Mike’s Reserve Red blend, and accounts for 26% in our no.4 version.

Natalie’s Tasting Notes

I recall being captivated by the information regarding the origin of grapes as I embarked on my wine journey. Having already produced Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, I was eager to discover how a Cabernet Franc would differ for us. I approached my dad about adding a Cabernet Franc to our wine selection, but it did not pique his interest. However, I managed to persuade him to try it for one vintage, resulting in our everyday-style Cabernet Franc in 2011, which we affectionately named “Ellena-Ellena” in honor of my mom. After ten more years of requests, my dad finally agreed again, allowing us to create a 2021 Reserve Cabernet Franc. The grapes for the 2021 vintage come from Columbia Valley, just outside the boundaries of Red Mountain, which lends them the rich intensity for which this area is renowned. This exquisite wine boasts captivating aromas of raspberry, vanilla, and sweet peppers. On the palate, it reveals delightful flavors of strawberries, smoky sun-dried tomatoes, and a hint of dried herbs.

Food Pairing

Because of Cabernet Franc’s medium-high acidity, it is a ideal food pairing wines. One of my favorites, is my mom’s Baguette Baked Tenderloin because the herbs in the meal marry so well with the wine. The recipe available online and in her latest cookbook.

Winemakers

Mike Conway & Natalie Conway-Barnes