Elk Prairie Vineyard

Elk Prairie has found a home for Pinot Noir atop 1,200 foot Fruitland Ridge in cool climate Southern Humboldt County, but that is not the only varietal showing class as Cabernet Franc has made a statement as well. The shale soils and ridge top sunlight make things work.

An amazingly silky and complete Cab Franc, with no vegetal aspects and striking color. The nose offers plum, sage, and exotic spices. Extremely refined on the palate with lively acidity and a minerally finish. Remarkable.

This will work well in a number of food pairings as the acidity will bring flavors to life. You may have to travel to Southern Humboldt to find where it is being served as case production is small.

Reviewed August 25, 2012 by Clark Smith.