An attractively plump and generous procession of Damson plum, crunchy blackberry, tart dark cherry, and pomegranate highlights a ripe and lush yet nicely restrained display subtly complicated by a range of fresh herbal notes including cilantro, rosemary, and dill. Hints of mocha, toffee, and crème brûlée gently contribute lightly decadent underpinnings temptingly dusted with pretty oak tones of vanilla, cinnamon, and toasted coconut. Wafts of lavender, jasmine, and rose lead a lightly pungent floral overlay as mild suggestions of roasted poblano pepper impart bits of pleasant pyrazinc charm. Notably soft and approachable yet concentrated on the palate with excellent depth and complexity backed by streaks of lively freshness; exhibiting a succulent and nicely polished presentation bursting with understated extraction and youthful energy. Medium bodied with moderate tannin cut by bright acidity. This 2020 Estate Cabernet Franc by Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard is a well balanced and delicious red from Santa Barbara's Santa Ynez Valley. 

Iconic for its role as a parent grape of Cabernet Sauvignon while itself also grown throughout France as well as most of the modern winemaking world, Cabernet Franc is a noble yet sometimes underappreciated variety that is loved for the unique herbal and savory qualities it bestows in its wines. This bottling, crafted by Buttonwood Winery & Vineyard using Cabernet Franc grown at their estate vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley, is a compelling example of how this grape can thrive in California's Central Coast. This possesses a ripe and juicy core of primarily dark fruits layered with interesting herbal notes, balanced oak tones, lifted floral character, and wonderfully classic hint of bell pepper. It is perfectly inviting and ready to enjoy immediately upon release yet also possesses the structure necessary to age for at least 3-5 years, and is sure to impress both seasoned Cab Franc lovers as well as those who might still be unfamiliar with the grape. Excellent.