Reviews & Ratings

2022 Leo Steen Cabernet Franc "Ascona Vineyard"

Winery: Leo Steen

Vintage: 2022

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Ascona Vineyard"

Wine Category: Cabernet Franc

Grape blend: 100% Cabernet Franc

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Santa Cruz Mountains

State or country: CA

Price: $42

Cases produced: 290

KWG Score: 93 (based on 2 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (93)

Review date: February 10, 2025

Wine Review: This slightly cloudy and midnight purple colored Cabernet Franc from Leo Steen opens with a black currant and red licorice bouquet with hints of sandalwood and tomato leaf. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied with integrated medium acidity. The mouthfeel is nicely balanced, round, and mouthwatering. The flavor profile is spiced red plum and chai tea blend with notes of loam and gooseberry. We also detected hints of herbes de Provence and a touch of dried strawberry. The finish is dry, and its flavors, acidity, and mild tannins fade away nicely. The Tasting Panel would pair this Cab Franc with coq au vin. Enjoy - KWGTP

Winemaker Notes: This wine takes its inspiration from the wonderful Cabernet Francs of the Loire region. After looking for an ideal vineyard site for many years, I found what I was looking for at the family-owned Ascona Vineyard - an ideal mountaintop site for growing a savory and sophisticated expression of Cabernet Franc. This electric nose opens up with aromas of black raspberry, currant and licorice pastilles followed with notes of moist soil, hints of fennel seed and rose petal. On the palate, a mix of black and red fruit mingles with perfume notes of lavender and tea leaves which leads to a long finish loaded with energy and freshness.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell Leo Steen 2022 Ascona Vineyard Cabernet Franc.