- 2012 Ziata Cabernet Franc - USA, California, Napa Valley (2/14/2026)
From my late father’s cellar, I had no idea that Ziata had been founded by Karen Cakebread. I had tried the Sauvignon Blanc with my parents in the past, but as I generally dislike the grape that wasn’t a useful introduction. Seeing several bottles of this Cabernet Franc in the cellar I decided to grab one to try. I am so glad I did.
Still quite saturated in color, I was expecting a bit of overripeness, but that’s not at all what I got. The fruit was still fresh, on the darker side of cherry and cassis, but there was also a freshness, not so far as “green” but more like a minty/menthol that kept the wine lively. There was still a notable tannic bite on the finish, so good that the fruit was also vibrant. I would not have guessed this to be well over ten years old. It seems to have a promising future. Good thing, as there are several more bottles in dad’s stash.