2007 Frédéric Mabileau "Racines" Bourgueil (Previously $20)

Very approachable Cabernet Franc. Full of dark berries, plenty of minerality, earthiness and a touch of wild mushrooms. Light to medium tannin profile, with I'd say would be perfect to be served cool. Try with asparagus, lightly grilled salmon, sirloin steak with wild mushroom sauce, salt cod or wiener schnitzel.

One of my favorite red wines is Cabernet Franc (all of California's Merlot should be grafted over to this varietal – it would make for much more interesting consumption). Some of the best is being created in the Loire Valley, and some of the best in the Loire Valley is coming from Frederic Mabileau, like his 2007 Bourgueil "Racines." I generally do not venture into recommending wines in this price range, but this is an incredible, organically cultivated, single vineyard (Racines) Gem from 60 year-old Cab Franc vines. Careful production has resulted in a wine that is the pure essence of what this varietal can show. Deep ruby in color, the nose explodes with cassis and black currant fruits, while in the mouth you will be treated to a complex, finely focused set of flavors that leads to a broad, ongoing finish. This is an amazing wine that Anderson says you must not ignore and need to stock up on – we plan to, as it will be one of our house reds for the month or for however long it lasts… 12.5% abv

This is a lively and versatile 100% organic Cabernet Franc with a come-hither nose of blackberry and earth that is underscored by a faint whiff of patchouli, in a good way. I recently paired it with a beef and broccoli stir-fry and it was excellent - the sweetness of the fruit complemented the sauce, while the tannin structure and mineral notes held up to the beef. The herbal and mineral notes really did wonders for the broccoli. Lots of staying power, too. I sampled over the course of 3 days and was never disappointed!

Really nice. Subtle tobacco and green pepper. Good weight. Wish it was a little cheaper though. 89 pts.