Kelham Vineyards

Oakville Cabernet Franc

9.61 ratings
-no pro ratings
Oakville, Napa Valley, California, USA
Cabernet Franc
Exotic Spices, Baking Spices, Hard Cheese, Blue Cheese, Chili & Hot Spicy, Pungent Cheese, Potato, White Rice, Herbs, Tomato-Based, Pasta, Mushrooms, Onion, Shallot, Garlic, Salami & Prosciutto, Beef, Soft Cheese, Chicken, Lamb, Turkey, Pork, Duck, Venison
Top Notes For
Freddy R. Troya

2013 Kelham Vineyards Cabernet Franc – Oakville, Napa Valley

Another masterpiece from vintner Ronald Nicholson, this 2013 Cabernet Franc is a rich, complex, and deeply expressive wine that perfectly showcases the varietal’s potential in Oakville terroir.

On the nose, it opens with layered aromas of cigar smoke, dusty blackberries, and sweet vanilla, inviting and instantly intriguing.

The palate delivers a powerful mix of dark cherry, plum, and subtle earthy notes, all wrapped in finely textured, chalky tannins. There’s a savory, meaty core that adds depth and juiciness, especially at the front of the palate.

Mouthfeel overall: Bold and structured, yet silky and refined. The balance of red and dark fruit is seamless, leading to a long, luxurious, and graceful finish. This wine is clearly cruising at its prime, showing finesse, polish, and just enough power to impress.

Extremely limited production. So, if you come across a bottle, don’t hesitate. It’s absolutely worth it.

Cheers!

2013 Kelham Vineyards Cabernet Franc – Oakville, Napa Valley

Another masterpiece from vintner Ronald Nicholson, this 2013 Cabernet Franc is a rich, complex, and deeply expressive wine that perfectly showcases the varietal’s potential in Oakville terroir.

On the nose, it opens with layered aromas of cigar smoke, dusty blackberries, and sweet vanilla, inviting and instantly intriguing.

The palate delivers a powerful mix of dark cherry, plum, and subtle earthy notes, all wrapped in finely textured, chalky tannins. There’s a savory, meaty core that adds depth and juiciness, especially at the front of the palate.

Mouthfeel overall: Bold and structured, yet silky and refined. The balance of red and dark fruit is seamless, leading to a long, luxurious, and graceful finish. This wine is clearly cruising at its prime, showing finesse, polish, and just enough power to impress.

Extremely limited production. So, if you come across a bottle, don’t hesitate. It’s absolutely worth it.

Cheers!

Jun 3rd, 2025