2023 Stonebreaker Cabernet Franc
2023 STONEBREAKER CABERNET FRANC
Aiming to have all the five Bordeaux varietals planted, Ames Morison allotted only a few acres to Cabernet Franc, waiting to see how this intense varietal did at Bell Mountain Vineyard. Since we first began harvesting the fruit, we’ve been blown away by its power and concentration that is softened by lush fruit qualities.
We continue to be amazed at how Bell Mountain has rejuvenated and healed itself in the wake of devastation and are dedicating our Cabernet Franc to the resilient wildflowers that grow here. Stonebreaker is the literal translation of Saxifrage, a native wildflower that blooms each spring at Bell Mountain. Its forceful name belies the delicacy and beauty of the flower it represents, much like the wine that presents as bold but softens as it opens up.
The 2023 Stonebreaker Cabernet Franc opens with lifted aromatics of camphor, ripe raspberry, and tobacco leaf, layered with blue fruit and a hint of savory spice. On the palate, vibrant acidity drives flavors of blueberry pie and fresh raspberry, underpinned by subtle graham-cracker crust and earthy complexity. The finish is long and structured, marked by woody, fine-grained tannins that give the finish structure and a savory, lingering close. Great alongside meat-centric dishes or earthy vegetable mains such as eggplant.
Vintage
The 2023 vintage was exceptional in so many ways and is expected to stand out as one of the finest. Beginning with a much-needed abundance of rainfall, a welcome relief after three years of intense drought, the vineyard came back to life with vibrant soil and canopies. A cool spring and summer allowed for a prolonged and gradual ripening period, resulting in exceptional phenolic ripeness and abundant flavors without excessively high sugar levels. Harvest kicked off later than usual, progressing at a steady pace that required lots of patience. This promises to be a vintage worth remembering and one that will let Bell Mountain truly express itself. We can't wait to savor the fruits of this extraordinary season.