Winemaker’s Notes
Chappellet Napa Valley Cabernet Franc 2021 is a beautifully crafted wine that showcases the elegance and depth of the varietal. In the glass, it presents a deep ruby color with hints of purple. The nose is rich and inviting, offering a bouquet of blackberry, black cherry, and plum, complemented by floral notes of violet and subtle undertones of cocoa, sweet tobacco, and vanilla. On the palate, this full-bodied wine delivers dark fruit flavors, with complex layers of spice and earthy undertones. The smooth, velvety texture is supported by well-integrated tannins and bright acidity, leading to a long, satisfying finish with lingering notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and a touch of minerality.
Critic Ratings
Jeb Dunnuck Review – Rated 95:
Looking first at the 2021 Cabernet Franc, this beauty is based on 78% Cabernet Franc, 7% each Merlot and Malbec, and the rest Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Red and black currants, fresh figs, savory flowers, spicy wood, and some camphor notes all soar from the glass, and it’s medium to full-bodied, with a pure, elegant mouthfeel, beautiful tannins, and outstanding length. This is a stunning Cabernet Franc to enjoy over the coming 15 years or more.
Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate Review – Rated 95:
Chappellet’s 2021 Cabernet Franc is quite floral on the nose, those hints of violets and sage blossoms adding a wonderful lift to the vanilla-accented cherries and raspberries at the core of the wine. Full-bodied and richly concentrated, with a long finish that’s simultaneously dusty and mouthwatering, this is almost approachable already, yet it looks to have the potential to age well for at least two decades. The final blend is 78% Cabernet Franc, 7% each Malbec and Merlot, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Petit Verdot.
James Suckling Review – Rated 94:
A dark red with aromas of blackberries, dark cherries, cassis and sweet spices. Medium to full body with fine tannins. Plush and opulent with a concentration of dark fruit at the center and a lively finish with excellent length. Yet remains very fresh. Just a hint of tannin austerity keeps it lively. Better from 2026.
Winery
Chappellet
Country/Region
United States, Napa Valley, California
Year
2021
Grape Varietal
Cabernet Franc
Size
750 ML
ABV
14.8%
Wine Style
Red Wine
Related products
