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Today's Wine Review

2023 Cross Keys Vineyards Cabernet Franc

Winery: Cross Keys Vineyards

Vintage: 2023

Wine Name/Vineyard:

Wine Category: Cabernet Franc

Grape blend: Cabernet Franc

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Shenandoah Valley

State or country: VA

Price: $45

Cases produced: unknown

KWG Score: 91 (based on 1 review)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (91)

Review date: June 1, 2026

Wine Review: This garnet-colored Cabernet Franc from Cross Keys opens with a dark chocolate and nutmeg bouquet with hints of black raspberry and violets. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with medium plus acidity. The mouthfeel is balanced, round, clean, and fresh. The flavor profile is a cedar and red currant blend with notes of strawberry licorice and stony minerality. I also detected hints of tobacco, cured meat, and red plum. The finish is dry, and its flavors, bright acidity, and moderate tannins drift away nicely. I would pair this Cab Franc with a grilled venison steak. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: The 2024 Cabernet Franc hits a great balance point of power and detail. The nose is perfumed with violets, ripe cherries, and plums with traces of olives. The palate is complete, balanced, and long. Bright red fruit flows with the fine, robust tannins into a finish laced cedar and subtle hints of earthiness.

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