the gamache brothers call this blend, which is half cabernet franc, one quarter merlot, and the rest split between malbec and syrah, a happy accident—the result of having a shortage of cabernet sauvignon for blending. the franc is a great base wine, a little rough and green, but packed with firm, cool-site red grape flavors. aromatic and tasting of mixed fruits, it's blended just ahead of bottling, so the juice gets the same care as the pricier varietal wines.
Boulder