1986 Clos Pegase Cabernet Franc

Clos Pegase is in Calistoga, Napa Valley. It was founded in 1984 by Jan and Mitsuko Shrem. Jan had spent several decades in the publishing industry in Japan before selling his company and devoting himself to learning winemaking. Today Clos Pegase owns about 400 acres of vineyards in Calistoga and Los Carneros. The estate is notable for its showcase winery, which was designed by celebrity architect Michael Graves and built in 1987. Also the Shrems' large collection of modern art is displayed inside the winery and outside in sculpture gardens. The estate produces a large portfolio of wines, from Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, to Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Rose and Syrah.

This is a parent grape to Cabernet Sauvignon. It most likely originates from Basque country. It is an excellent blending grape, known for making the exquisite Cheval-Blanc. Franc is a little hardier on a vine than Sauvignon, but drinks smoothly at the table.