2018 The Debate - Cabernet Franc Napa Stagecoach Vineyard (750ml)

The Debate was founded in 2010 around a simple premise, two friends with differing views on wine expressing that dialogue through single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Every bottling arrives wrapped in newspaper printed with debates from that vintage, a playful nod to the project's mission of sparking conversation around the table. Winemaking is handled by Jean Hoefliger, whose résumé spans respected Napa and Bordeaux addresses including Lynch-Bages, Newton Vineyard, and Alpha Omega.

Stagecoach Vineyard, situated on Pritchard Hill, is the largest and highest-elevation of the three sites The Debate draws from for its Cabernet Franc program. The extended growing season at altitude allowed the grapes a long hang time, building structure and depth without sacrificing lift. The wine was fully barrel fermented and spent roughly four weeks on its skins before aging close to two years in French oak, a large portion of it new, a regimen designed to soften tannins while preserving the site's character.

The 2018 vintage is opaque garnet-purple, opening with red currant jelly, Morello cherry, and mulberry alongside cedar, pencil lead, and wild thyme. The medium-bodied palate is intense with red fruit and savory accents, framed by firm, grainy tannins and a lively backbone that carries through a long, earthy finish. Its structure suits braised short ribs, herb-roasted duck, or a rich mushroom tart.