We visited in September and were able to try all but the SauvBlanc (all sold out). I got the offer today…$60, whioe reasonable, is a bit up there. What is the style? Bordeaux Blanc like? I forgot if there is oak use or not.
And without a doubt the star of our visit was the CabFranc. WOW!
Never had their cab francs. How does it compare to other CA cab francs or Loire Valley for that matter?
Not much resemblance to Loire Valley CFs. Much more depth, richness and zero green notes. When comparing to some of my other favorite Napa cab francs, it’s in a similar profile to Arnyca (dark, savory, touch of herbal notes, fragrant aromatics). When comparing to Detert (another I love) it channels a bit more dark fruit in a more plush profile.
Hope that helps.
Tench’s release notes state 100% stainless.
From Tench:
2021 Tench Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Oakville
The Sauvignon Blanc is a blend of two different clones that give it unique complexity and richness. Entirely fermented in stainless steel, it offers up notes of brioche, caramelized citrus, grapefruit pith and a hint of white flowers. It has a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel with balanced acidity.
Haven’t tried the Tench and don’t know the style. But will say- Bevan’s Bennett Valley SB is one of my faves out of CA. It’s unfiltered (the bottles take on a bit of sediment) so gains a bit richness while staying very light. One picks up minerality but the fruit is the star, a bit of zesty acid but nicely balanced (nowhere near New Zealand acid).
A bit embarrassed to admit I went to bed last night trying to convince myself to purchase this release.
I got some of the SB in the release 2 years ago and it was excellent. It is on the pricey side for SB.
The bottles of cab are hiding in my off site so I have no input on the estate cab.
Just got back from Napa and tasted at Tench with Margaret. These wines are the real deal. Was really hard for us to pick out a favorite, all 4 were phenomenal. The sauvignon blanc was top notch, I’d put it up there against Mondavi I block. The cab franc and Bromfield blend were amazing each in their own way, but the estate cab was in a league of it’s own. Wish I could be more descriptive. And for the location the pricing wasn’t too crazy. Margaret was an awesome host, spent considerable time with us explaining her family history on the property, showing us the property, and how the soils change throughout the property. I’ve already gone back twice to Margaret and increased our order. Highly recommend seeking out the wines and if in Napa, arranging a visit with Margaret.
Great thread. Loving Tench fruit in many Bevan wines and Riverain. My Tench order should arrive today. Cheers all!
Recently back from Napa and tasted L’Envolée Wines made by Caitlin Lhommeau. Caitlin is one of the winemakers at Tench and her Cabernets, made from Tench fruit, are stunning.
So happy to hear that Ray. Caitlin is sending out my bottles today. Great young winemaker and so friendly as well.
Agree Sharad. I have been encouraging her to be a part of BerserkerDay 14.
Are you sure it is from Tench? It does not seem to mention Tench (just Oakville) on their site…maybe I missed it
NDA.
ok gotcha…For $125 that is pretty good, have only seen JD review, how does this compare to say Bevan Tench?
Alexander–see Dunnuck’s review of 2018 Resolution Wines where Tench is mentioned as the source. She was later forced to change the name and came up with L’Envolée Wines (and a more attractive label).
Unfortunately, I have not tasted Bevan Tench so can’t compare.
I’ve had both 2018s. I would say on a relative basis that the notes for both on the nose and palate are consistent with the Tench terroir. The Bevan is consistent with personalities -big and unapologetically energetic, the Resolution/L’Envolee is seemingly more elegant on a relative basis but no one will confuse it with BDX.
Perfect, thanks for $125 I feel it is worth a try!
I tried to seek out the exact vineyard(s) sourcing but so far I just heard Oakville. Since Caitlin works at Tench, I would think there could be some of that fruit in there.
Love that idea. I will run it by her as well. Cheers Ray!
Thank you everyone for the positive feedback on my wines. I appreciate it! L’Envolee Wines is a small 2 barrel project of wine that I make on the side each vintage but it has been a great opportunity to build upon what I’ve learned from Russell and other great winemakers to create my own style. Obviously I can’t comment on the vineyard source, but don’t speculate too hard! There are many vineyards in Oakville 
Here’s the bottom line: regardless of vineyard source, anyone who appreciates excellent Napa Valley Cabernet will be very happy with Caitlin’s wines.