Introduction
Darioush Signature Cabernet Franc Napa Valley 2018 is a sophisticated red wine that beautifully showcases the often-underestimated power and elegance of Cabernet Franc in the esteemed Napa Valley. Produced by Darioush, a winery renowned for its distinctive Persian-inspired aesthetic and commitment to crafting luxurious, Bordeaux-varietal wines, this “Signature” bottling highlights the grape’s unique character. The 2018 vintage in Napa Valley was particularly lauded for its long, balanced growing season, resulting in wines of exceptional purity, depth, and structure. This wine embodies Darioush’s meticulous approach, offering a compelling blend of fruit intensity, savory complexity, and graceful aging potential.
Character Description
The Darioush Signature Cabernet Franc Napa Valley 2018 presents a deep, captivating garnet-purple hue, indicative of its concentration and richness. It offers an intensely aromatic bouquet of ripe blackcurrant, dark plum, and boysenberry, intricately woven with classic Cabernet Franc notes of crushed violets, bell pepper, tobacco leaf, and a subtle hint of graphite and dark chocolate. On the palate, it delivers a full-bodied and impeccably structured texture, with concentrated dark fruit and earthy-savory flavors mirroring the nose. It’s supported by firm yet polished tannins that provide excellent backbone and a long, seamless finish, balanced by a vibrant acidity that ensures freshness and remarkable length. The finish is persistent, nuanced, and gracefully aromatic, leaving a lingering impression of dark berries, complex spice, and a refined, dusty terroir.
Perfect Pairings
This distinguished Cabernet Franc is an exceptional partner for a range of robust and refined dishes. It pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops, roasted duck, beef tenderloin, or hearty stews and braised meats. Its distinctive herbal and earthy notes also make it an ideal accompaniment to dishes featuring mushrooms, bell peppers, or smoked paprika, as well as a variety of aged, firm cheeses like mature Cheddar or Gouda. The wine’s powerful yet elegant structure makes it a fantastic choice for a celebratory dinner, a sophisticated gathering, or for those who appreciate the complex nuances of a premium Cabernet Franc. Decanting for at least an hour is highly recommended to allow its full expression.
About the Winery
Darioush, founded by Darioush Khaledi in 1997, is a distinctive winery in Napa Valley that merges ancient Persian winemaking traditions with modern Californian viticulture. Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Persepolis and his family’s winemaking legacy, Darioush is renowned for its opulent, handcrafted wines that are both powerful and elegant. The winery is distinguished by its stunning architecture, reflecting the grandeur of ancient Persia, and its unwavering commitment to producing world-class wines from exceptional Napa Valley vineyards, including those atop Mount Veeder and in Oak Knoll. Their philosophy emphasizes meticulous attention to detail in both vineyard and cellar, aiming to create wines that offer a unique sensory experience. The 2018 Signature Cabernet Franc is a true representation of Darioush’s dedication to luxurious quality, its unique cultural vision, and its ability to consistently deliver memorable and expressive wines.
