Cabernet Franc has historically played a supporting role in the LMV Salon blend. It is a noble variety, but one with an uneven history in Napa Valley, both qualitatively and stylistically. Here at Larkmead, there is success in planting Cabernet Franc in heavier, richer soils. Moving forward, the goal is to allow this wine to differentiate itself by including a higher percentage of Cabernet Franc (up to 70%); this will elevate the variety’s complimentary characteristics (spice, herb) to Cabernet Sauvignon and produce a blend that best communicates the complexity of the estate.
97pts James Suckling– 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
This red is mostly cabernet franc and shows all the fresh-herb, dark-berry, plum and tobacco character you would expect. Hazelnuts, too. Fresh mushrooms. Full-bodied yet reserved and focused. Long and flavorful. Beautiful and lightly chewy now, but will be even better in 2022.
97+pts The Wine Advocate– 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
Composed of 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Cabernet Sauvignon, the deep garnet-purple colored 2016 LMV Salon sings of kirsch, red currant jelly, crushed blackberries and black raspberries with hints of marmite toast, pencil shavings, cracked black pepper and tilled soil. Medium to full-bodied, the palate with led with a rock-solid structure of chewy tannins and a living line lifting the red and black fruit layers with a long, herb laced finish. 680 cases were made.
95pts Vinous – Antonio Galloni– 2016 vintage
FOR THE 2016 VINTAGE
The 2016 LMV Salon is just as compelling from bottle as it was from barrel. Rose petal, mint, sweet red cherry and espresso open up in a very pretty, aromatically expressive wine. Cabernet Franc takes the leading role in the LMV Salon in 2016, and that comes through very nicely here. Bright, vibrant and full of character, the 2016 hits all the right notes. What a gorgeous wine it is.
