I know that WTSO gets mixed reviews here, but they had two excellent CA francs recently that fit within your price point. Jocelyn Lonen Stagecoach ($22) and St. Francis McCoy Vineyard ($19). Very impressed for the tariff for each. Keep an eye out for these if you decide to stay on the budget side of your price point.
Although a few dollars more ($45 IIRC), the Trespass Cab Franc is stellar.
You’re right! I didn’t list Trespass as I recalled that the franc was more than that. However, I checked my CT and low an behold - $47.
The wines are excellent.
Just had an 05 Darioush Cab Franc last night…see my tasting note in other post. Really good.
Hureau in Saumur is another good maker.
Any particular bottlings you’d recommend, Ian?
I tried the 08 La Tuffe from Hureau and found it a bit too austere and sour, but I’ve heard a lot of good things about the estate, so I’m keen on trying at least one other bottling.
Meanwhile, enjoying an 05 Baudry Clos Guillot right now - young as hell, but so, so good.
+1 for Barrister
Same story from me on this one. Unbalanced acidity and quite dull aromatically. I can handle some imbalance if there’s a lot of character, but this just was showing the bare minimum of what I’d hope from from Loire Franc.
I’ve only opened the 2005 Lisagathe, about a bottle a year since 2009: very good now with much improvement yet to come, I’d estimate. If we were closer, I’d invite you over to sample a bottle with me.
I annually buy Owen Roe Cab Franc “Rosa Mystica” and it really starts to shine after about 5 years in the cellar. I think the recent vintages should be even better with the addition of Red Willow into the vineyard mix.
Coniglio in Napa Valley has made some excellent cab franc’s over the years.