2018 The Debate - Cabernet Franc Napa Stagecoach Vineyard
Vineyard & Vintage
Stagecoach Vineyard is the largest and highest-elevation site the team uses, and the 2018 vintage benefited from an extended growing season at altitude. This combination yields grapes with expressive structure and notable finesse, preserving lift even as tannins form a firm backbone.
Winemaking & Maturation
The Debate 2018 was fully barrel fermented and spent nearly three weeks on its skins,locking in color and texture. It aged for almost two years in French oak, the majority of it new, which rounds the tannins and adds subtle toasty, aromatic layers without masking the fruit.
Tasting Notes
The wine presents a deep garnet-purple color and opens with notes of red currant jelly, Morello cherry, and mulberry, complemented by cedar, pencil lead, and wild thyme. On the palate, it is medium-bodied but intense, with firm, grainy tannins guiding a long, earthy finish that invites another sip.
Food Pairing & Serving
An excellent partner for filet mignon or aged manchego, this Cabernet Franc stands up to rich, savory dishes while maintaining elegance. Its structure and nuanced oak integration also pair well with dishes featuring herb-driven sauces or mushrooms.
Why This Bottle Stands Out
- Part of a trio of Stagecoach Vineyard Cabernet Franc bottlings, representing a distinct single-vineyard expression from The Debate.
- Altitude-driven hang time contributes to layered complexity and energetic lift.
- Wine is the result of Jean Hoefliger’s winemaking approach, delivering a poised balance between fruit, tannin, and oak.
- The label’s newspaper-debate motif nods to a wine that sparks conversation at the table, pairing well with thoughtful meals and conversation alike.