When I heard that Joullian Vineyards offers two Cabernet Francs on their tasting menu, I knew I had to visit. You could say I even heard it through the “grapevine.”
Puns aside, I’ve been rediscovering my love for Cab Francs and the ones I’ve tried from Carmel Valley have been superb.
It was a beautiful sunny 75 in Carmel Valley when I headed out to visit Joullian Vineyards tasting room. There is something about great weather that makes wine tasting so much better. Don’t you agree?
Joullian Vineyards tasting room is right in Carmel Valley Village, about 30 mins from Monterey. They offer 3 different tasting flights: Daily, Reserve and Cellar Selections.
We went with the Reserve which includes a Pinot Noir, the two Cabernet Francs, a Merlot, a Syrah and a Cabernet Sauvignon.
As a red wine lover I was in heaven!
I’m sure you are asking yourself, “But wait! Where is the Rosé ?”
Don’t worry my friend! I asked for a taste, because you know I never visit a winery without trying the Rosé – and wearing a white dress 😂
The 2018 Rosé is Semillon dominant blend with flavors of Strawberry, Watermelon and a floral note.
I’ve been enjoying trying all the different styles of Rosé throughout Carmel Valley and this was one of my favorites. I purchased a bottle to add to my growing local Rosé collection.
While I enjoyed tasting all of Joullian’s reds, the Cabernet Franc Reserve Estate was the stand out for me.
I enjoyed the other Cab Franc on offer, the Argyle 2017, but it didn’t have the bold peppery notes I was looking for and love.
I was reading the wine maker’s notes for this Cab Franc and learned it’s planted on its own roots – not grafted on American root stock. Very interesting!
I need to head back to Joullian and grab a bottle of this dreamy Cab Franc. Want to come with?
Joullian Vineyards
2 Village Dr
Carmel Valley, CA 93924
(831) 659-8100
Website: www.joullian.com
Instagram: @Joullianvineyards
