St. Helena, CA, February 16, 2023 – The release of the 2021 North Coast Cabernet Franc ($45 SRP) marks a return to Lang & Reed’s conceptual roots; a robust Cabernet Franc crafted solely with fruit from California’s North Coast. Founded almost three decades ago, Lang & Reed is a family brand unwavering in their focus on sharing the distinct charms of Northern California’s Cabernet Franc. Open to opportunities and resilient in the face of adversity, the fires of 2015 and beyond forced them to explore different viticultural areas throughout the Golden State, finding gems in other parts of California that enhanced the profile of the wine that their reputation has been built upon. Also offering vineyard designate Cabernet Franc from Napa Valley and Sonoma County, this inaugural release is the sum of over four decades of living and working in California’s North Coast wine grape growing region and over two decades of walking and procuring Cabernet Franc from its varied terroir and beautiful vineyards.
Winemaker John Skupny had been carrying the torch for North Coast AVAs his entire career, intimately familiar with all counties in the area. Over that time, certain vineyards have stood out. The majority of this 2021 North Coast selection emanates from two vineyards that consistently warranted such attention: the T-bar-T Ranch in Alexander Valley and the Quercus Ranch in the Big Valley of Lake County. The resulting wine was aged for 16 months in very intentionally chosen French Oak barrels, and bottled at 100% Cabernet Franc.
Bottled early, the essence of fruit and true characteristics of the grapes are very present. Deep, almost brooding, aromas of black cherry, currant and fine herb are prominent, giving way to more of the same profile upon the palate. The purity of both charm and complexity are prevalent as the wine blossoms in flavor and intensity. The finish is very youthful, with a level of tannins that provide a palatable grip, showcasing definition and texture.
About Lang & Reed Napa Valley
Located at 1244 Spring St in St Helena, CA, Lang & Reed is one of the few wineries in Napa Valley to specialize in 100% Cabernet Franc and explore the distinct charms of Chenin Blanc. They have long been inspired by and passionate about giving these varieties an opportunity to shine – true to type, pure in flavor. The wine-producing Skupny family has been creating expressive wines that are enjoyable to drink since 1996. Winemaking is a form of storytelling for the Skupny family, and Lang & Reed wines tell a tale of a multi-generational family business and their wonderful wine-filled life together.
Spring House, an historic Victorian that is now home to Lang & Reed’s tasting salon, is right off the hub of St Helena’s Main Street, where Tracey, John, Reed and Megan Skupny offer intimate, appointment-only tastings that allow visitors to get to know the family behind the brand, while they impart their affection for Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. To learn more about Lang & Reed Napa Valley, 2021 North Coast Cabernet Franc and other upcoming wine releases, visit their website (https://langandreed.com/) and follow them on Instagram (@langandreed) and Facebook (@langandreed).
