Crocker Starr 2019 Proprietary Red AVA St. Helena, Napa

Jeb Dunnuck 94 Points: “The deep ruby/purple-hued 2019 A.V.A. Red Blend of Cabernet Franc checks in as 68% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, and the rest Petit Verdot and Malbec. It’s a ripe, medium to full-bodied, incredibly silky expression of this variety and has lots of darker, almost black fruits (currants, blackberries) as well as perfumed notes of spring flowers, tobacco, graphite, and earth. Aged 22 months in 60% new French oak, it’s balanced, has polished tannins, and has a great finish. Drink bottles any time over the coming 15 years or more.”

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby in color, this wine displays a gorgeous nose of dark ripe plum, cocoa powder, hot tamale candy, and sandalwood spice.  Silky friendly tannins and medium body elegantly frame the fruit on the palate which lingers through the wine’s lengthy and seamless finish. This blend of Cabernet Franc is drinking beautifully now and will cellar well over the next ten years.   

Pam Starr: “A.V.A. stands for American Viticulture Area and for us it represents the culmination of sustainable viticulture, the resurrection of our 1870s winery, and classic winemaking. The bouquet on the front label ties into our rich history, as it and our 1870s Victorian home originate from a Sears & Roebuck catalog.  Inspired by the great wines of the right bank of Bordeaux, our A.V.A. St. Helena’s blend of Cabernet Franc serves as the perfect introduction to the Crocker & Starr portfolio. “

Winery Notes: “Deep ruby in color, this wine displays a gorgeous nose of dark ripe plum, cocoa powder, hot tamale candy, and sandalwood spice.  Silky friendly tannins and medium body elegantly frame the fruit on the palate which lingers through the wine’s lengthy and seamless finish. This blend of Cabernet Franc is drinking beautifully now and will cellar well over the next ten years.

Also check out her fun Crocker Starr 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, A.V.A. Napa Valley