2013 Del Dotto Cabernet Franc
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Tuesday, March 19, 2024 - Tasting Note 7 of #50in2024
The 2013 Del Dotto Cabernet Franc is near the end of its tasting window...or so they say. I reviewed its appearance in the glass as I waited for it to come up to a pleasant drinking temperature from storage temp of 55.
It poured a beautiful, deep purple color with little to no indication by color of its 10+ years in the bottle. I've red that the color can intensify with age which I think is the case here. When younger, I think it looked a bit lighter. After a swirl, the legs aren't that fast on the glass, so I am expecting a medium alcohol level ...less full bodied than the Del Dotto Cabernet Sauvignon's that I love.
The nose is light, not getting the floral elements I would expect from Cab Franc. Nothing special, but nice.
Initial taste brings medium-level acidity and medium tannins. I am having trouble identifying distinct elements of taste. yes, red fruit but not very bright. Really tastes like right down the middle, like a wine that doesn't want to make waves. Could be a crowd pleaser as it doesn't venture off too far from expectations of a medium-bodied red wine. I will say the tannins/dryness lingers long after the sip is complete. After multiple tastes, I am getting some herbal tones but not bell pepper as might expect from franc, I want to say mushrooms/earthiness but again not strong. The most distinct characteristic is the lingering dryness for me.
OK, I'm going sub 90 on this...lets say 89. Its a good wine, I would be happy to serve it and drink it. Given its medium-body it would pair well with a lot. I don't think this gets any better with age...so its time to move from coravin to pulling the cork and enjoying this bottle.
Last thought: I purchased this years ago during a barrell tasting at Del Dotto - which is almost entirely Cabernet Sauvignon heavy (and great). When you taste the Cab Franc in that context its different, brighter and unique. Its relief from Cab Sav fatigue (is there such a thing?!).
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