The temperature changed today back to a more wintery level. With wintery weather in the forecast, I was looking for a red to sip for the evening. I have lots of reds to choose from but most of them I would need to have food. I was just looking for a sipper. I picked the 2009 Cabernet Franc from Blenheim Vineyards. I know I just posted about them last week but I do enjoy their wines and have several of them on my rack. While the 2009 Cabernet Franc would go beautifully with food, it doesn’t have to. That’s one thing I like about it. You can just sip it.

After cracking open the screw cap and pouring a glass, I noticed smoke and some light fruit on the nose. The first sip revealed some green pepper, a very slight hint of cherry, herbs, and a tart finish. After a few swirls and a little air, I noticed a floral quality that I haven’t noticed before. This cab franc spent 6 months in French and Appalachian barrels. I’m not familiar with the characteristics that come from Appalachian barrels. Maybe some of the qualities I’m noticing come from these barrels. In any case, I enjoyed the 2009 Cabernet Franc from Blenheim Vineyards. Blenheim is one of my favorite wineries and really enjoy the direction Kirsty is going with her wines. Visit Blenheim soon and tell Kirsty Virginia Wine Time sent you!