2023 Brook & Bull Cellars - Cabernet Franc Columbia Valley (750ml)

Brook & Bull Cellars is the work of winemaker Ashley Trout, who founded the Walla Walla winery in 2016 as her third project in the region. Trout crafts nuanced, balanced wines with classic Bordeaux character, combining small-batch, high-quality production with a deep commitment to community through her nonprofit, Vital Wines, which supports vineyard workers. Her acclaim in Washington's wine scene comes both from her winemaking artistry and her years of experience, including harvests in Argentina.

This is a small-production wine, with only 635 cases made of the 2023 vintage.

Expect a complex, earthy profile with enticing aromas of ripe plum, violet, and cedar, interwoven with spicy notes of black pepper, graphite, and tobacco. The palate delivers juicy raspberry and strawberry fruit, complemented by savory hints of sage, lavender, and even a touch of smoky campfire, all supported by lush tannins and mouthwatering acidity through a complex, lingering finish. Aromatic and savory notes of ripe cherry, cumin, and cracked black pepper come through as well, with the palate showing tomato and grilled sausage character, finishing on dusty cocoa, with velvety tannins balanced by bright, food-friendly acidity.

This is a versatile, food-friendly Cabernet Franc well suited to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a hearty tomato-based dish.