Wine Tasting Notes of Nan & Michael
"Wine Lovers"
No. California & Oregon Wines and Wineries

FRANCISCAN OAKVILLE ESTATE
Hwy. 29 at Galleron Road, St. Helena
(800) 529-WINE, Ext. 130
http://www.franciscan.com

Wonderful, wonderful wines. And some fantastic learning opportunities through their Taste Exploration Series. Tasting hours: Daily - 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Listed wines and/or vintages may no longer be available. Contact the winery for the most recent releases. 1998 Zinfandel Brisk spices in the aroma, followed by fruity flavors, and a peppery, spicy finish. 1999 Merlot A lush wine, full of flavor. A blush of red cherries on the nose, with cherries and blackberries in the mouth and on the finish. 1999 Cuvee Sauvage A wild yeast fermented Chardonnay, it has a creamy buttery-oaky-vanilla aroma. We picked up pears in the mouth. A nice, long finish. 1998 Estancia Red Meritage This wine is made from a careful blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec and has a very lovely taste, medium tannins, and a delightful spicy finish. 1998 Magnificat A harmoniously blended wine consisting of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. We picked up a semi-sweet chocolate aroma with blackberry flavors and a hint of chocolate on the finish. Yummy wine. 1995 Franciscan Library Reserve Cabernet A deep, rich black plum aroma that carried over into the full taste that was accented by a spicy oak and pleasant earthiness. A touch of tobacco on the finish. This wine is only available at the winery and has a two-bottle limit.