Dec 30, 2022
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Frank Family Vineyards
| Owner(s) | Frank Family |
| Web site | www.frankfamilyvineyards.com |
| Link to this site |
Rich Frank was a Disney executive who started traveling to Napa Valley for short vacations. In 1990, he bought a home in Rutherford and two years later, with his wife Connie, and friend and partner, Koerner Rombauer, Frank acquired the historic Larkmead Winery in Calistoga. In 2007, Rich and Connie Frank bought out Koerner's partnership.
The winery is located on Larkmead Lane in Calistoga. It was first constructed as Larkmead Winery in 1884 (the third oldest in the state) and was refinished with native sandstone from the nearby hills in 1906. The massive stone edifice is considered one of the finest structures in Napa Valley and appears on the National Registry of Historical Places. Lily Hitchcock Coit, a colorful figure of early California, originated the winery's name after thousands of wild meadowlarks inhabited the open fields in the area.
The winemaker since 2003 has been Todd Graff. He has worked in wineries in Europe, Australia and California including Sonoma Creek Winery, Codorniu (now Artesa), and Schramsberg. His experience with sparkling wines has led to a collection of outstanding Frank Family sparkling wines. The winery has a well-deserved reputation for its Cabernet Sauvignon. A Pinot Noir and Reserve Pinot Noir has been produced since the 2007 vintage. Sparkling wines are also offered in the traditional French methode champenoise.
The winery farms more than 250 acres of vineyards in Calistoga, Capell Valley, Carneros and Rutherford.
The tasting room was renovated in 2008 and is housed in a 1930s Craftsman home. In 2010 and 2011, the tasting room won the reader's choice for Best Tasting Room in Napa in the San Francisco Chronicle. This is a reflection of the winery's motto: "You'll never have better wine...or a better time." The tasting room is open daily, offers picnic grounds and a scenic view.
The winery was awarded "Winery of the Year" by Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine in its "Best of 2012" December issue.
Articles About Frank Family Vineyards
2018 California Value Priced Pinot Noir All-Americans (11.36 12/29/2018)
A Few Notable Wines Tasted Recently (11.21 3/31/2018)
Along The Pinot Trail: 2013 World of Pinot Noir (9.23 4/13/2013)
California Spring Releases of Pinot Noir to Covet (11.7 8/7/2017)
More Sips of Pinot Noir (8.35 4/11/2011)
More Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (9.49 10/20/2014)
Pinot Briefs (9.17 12/26/2012)
Recent California Pinot Noir Releases (9.5 4/4/2012)
Recent Sips of California Pinot Noir & Chardonnay (11.22 4/14/2018)
Recently Tasted California Wines (11.48 7/17/2019)
Recently Tasted Chardonnay (10.41 11/8/2016)
Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.41 11/8/2016)
Recently Tasted Pinot Noir & Chardonnay (11.25 6/26/2018)
Sips of California Pinot Noir: Recently Sampled Wines (9.23 4/13/2013)
Sips of Recently Tasted Domestic Chardonnay (11.7 8/7/2017)
Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.12 6/14/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted Pinot Noir (10.6 3/15/2015)
Sips of Recently Tasted White Wines (10.12 6/14/2015)
Reviewed Wines
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.61, 25,000
cases, $38. Barrel fermented in 34% new, 33% once and 33% twice-filled French oak barrels for 9
months. Aged on the lees with hand stirring regularly.
·
Very light golden yellow color in the glass.
Exuberant aromas of pineapple, lemon drop, mango, butter creme and vanilla. A friendly wine that
grows on you over time, offering flavors of lemon, pineapple and vanilla creme. The comforting
texture is slightly oily and the acidity is well woven into the fabric of the wine.
Score: 90.
Reviewed July 20, 2019
ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases, $38. The
foundation for this wine is the Sangiacomo Vineyard and Beckstoffer Vineyard located in the heart of Carneros.
Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once and twice-filled.
·
Moderately light garnet color in
the glass. The nose leads with aromas of red cherry gumdrop, fertile soil and sandalwood. The mid weight
essence of red cherry fruit is embellished with lavish oak. Silky in the mouth, with trim tannins and a modest
finish. One thinks oak when drinking this wine.
Score: 87.
Reviewed July 20, 2019
ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Valley Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., $70.
·
Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Lively aromas of lemon curd, pineapple, Golden Delicious apple,
and white flower blossom. Bright and vibrant in character with obvious class, offering flavors of lemon-lime,
pear and green apple. A bit reserved in fruit intensity, yet offering upbeat vitality, and finishing with a pleasing
cut of acidity on the finish.
Score: 93.
Reviewed July 20, 2019
ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Valley Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $70.
Lewis Vineyard is 78 acres (68 acres of Chardonnay and 10 acres of Pinot Noir) located in the heart of Napa-
Carneros near the shores of San Pablo Bay. Restricting soils of dense clay loam. Predominant maritime
influence.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Lovely perfume of black cherry, cardamom spice and pipe
smoke. Sleek and easily approachable in a mid weight style offering flavors of black cherry and boysenberry
with mild toasty oak in the background. A commendable offering with nothing to criticize except that a slight
sense of alcoholic warmth lingers at the end.
Score: 92.
Reviewed July 20, 2019
ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Beckstoffer Lake Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Chardonnay
14.5%
alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.60, 200 cases, Wine Club only. Released March 2018. Inaugural bottling. Heavy bottle with
embossed label. Barrel fermented in 50% new and 60% once-filled French oak barrels for 9 months. Regular
lees stirring to promote depth.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. This wine has considerable
“minerality” on the nose with aromas of riverbed, slate and lemon peel. Big and saucy for a Chardonnay, yet
everything is kept in balance. The flavors of pear and apple and offer only subtle citrus notes. Creamy in the
mouth from full malolactic fermentation. The wine’s bright acidity and firm structure holds the rich fruit in check.
Stylistically, this wine is similar to the Lewis Vineyard Chardonnay, but but it is more in tune with my palate.
Score: 94.
Reviewed June 29, 2018
ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases, $38. The
foundation for this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard located in Napa Carneros near the
shores of San Pablo Bay. This 78-acre vineyard has 68 acres planted to Chardonnay and 10 acres
planted to Pinot Noir. The wine was aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once
and twice-filled.
·
Moderate garnet color in the glass. Perfume of black cherry, forest floor, and oak
toast and spice. The middleweight, well-ripened flavors of black cherry and blueberry-pomegranate
please with good intensity. Sleek in the mouth with engaging balance, a noticeable compliment of
oak, and some finishing length.
Score: 89.
Reviewed April 15, 2018
ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.4% alc.,
pH 3.52, TA 0.62, 25,000 cases, $38. Barrel fermented in
34% new, 33% once and 33% twice-filled French oak
barrels for 9 months. While aging on the lees, the wine
was hand stirred regularly to promote depth and longevity.
The winemaker is Todd Graff.
·
Moderate golden yellow
color in the glass. Lovely aromas of lemon, white peach
and jasmine. Welcome charge of lemon, pear, lychee, white peach,
candied apple and spice flavors. Very congenial with valid balance and
an air of sophistication. Even better when tasted the following day from
a previously opened and re-corked bottle. I can understand why this
wine is so popular.
Score: 93.
Reviewed April 1, 2018
ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Carneros Reserve Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.53,
TA 0.60, 1,000 cases, $65. Released March 2018. Heavy bottle with embossed label. Dijon clones. Aged 11
months in 100% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Lovely aromas of
lemon curd, ripe yellow apple and crème brûlée. Creamy, and quite flavorful on the palate in a rich style
popularized in California. Flavors of lemon, pineapple, tropical fruits and yellow grapefruit. Comforting to drink
with a seductive mouth feel, but this is not particularly acid-driven wine as far as vibrancy or mineral content.
The decadent fruit sops up the lavish oak such that the oak blends in and becomes complimentary. There are
many fans who relish this style of Chardonnay.
Score: 92.
Reviewed June 29, 2018
ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Valley Reserve Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.64, TA
0.59, 1,000 cases, $65. Released March 2018. Heavy bottle with embossed label. Clones 115, 667 and 777.
Aged 10 months in 50% new and 50% once-filled French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the
glass. Initially, the nose offers only toast and lite cigar aromas, but with swirling, ripe, black fruit aromas show
up. Full-bodied, velvety and fat in the mouth with waves of blackberry and cassis fruit flavors. The oak is
intrusive upon opening with flavors of vanilla and taste chiming in. The tannins are well-proportioned, the finish
is not as intense as the fruit load would suggest and a bit of alcohol awareness peaks out at the end. The wine
is accessible now but certainly should show less oak overlay with more time in bottle. Still, a lot of fruit and oak
to get your arms around.
Score: 89.
Reviewed June 29, 2018
ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.56, $. Produced and bottled by
Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, CA.. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new and 67% once and
twice-filled.
·
Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Soaring aromas of black strawberry, black cherry,
blackberry and toasty oak. Luscious in the mouth, with the mid weight plus essence of black cherry and
blackberry fruits. Enters better than it finishes but still satisfies. When tasted the following day from a previously
opened and re-corked bottle, the oak overlay characters of dark chocolate, coffee and spice were more
evident.
Score: 89.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.56, TA
0.59, 1,000 cases, $. Produced and bottled by Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, CA.. Clones 115, 667 and
777. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once-filled.
·
Dark garnet color in the glass.
Aromas of dark fruits and sweet oak lead off. Full-bodied and Syrah-like in concentration, with a no holds
barred charge of purple and black fruits that thoroughly saturate the palate. The tannins are well matched and
the finish is fruit-filled yet modest. The flavor profile is similar to the regular Carneros bottling, but ramped up
fruit sap and oak. When sampled the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, oak notes of
dark chocolate and coffee were prevalent. A wine for Pinot hedonists with a thing for oak.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.47, TA 0.64, $35. The
foundation for this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard located in Napa Carneros near the
shores of San Pablo Bay. 68 acres planted to Chardonnay and 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir. Other
sources include Beckstoffer Vineyards and Hudson Vineyards in Napa Carneros, and Sangiacomo
Vineyards in Sonoma Carneros. Barrel fermented and aged on the lees with hand stirring in French
oak barrels, 34% new, 33% once-filled and 33% twice-filled.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in
the glass. Leading off are aromas of buttery brioche, lemon curd, poached pear, banana and burnt
caramel. A rich and well-ripened style, yet easy going, with flavors of pear, yellow nectarine and
cantaloupe embellished with meticulous integration of oak on the palate. Silky in the mouth with a modest, but
juicy finish.
Score: 90.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.32, TA
0.64, 1,000 cases, $65. The Lewis Vineyard was bought by Rich Frank in 2000 and named for Paul Frank’s
son, Lewis. 58 acres are planted to Chardonnay in shallow and dense clay loam soils. Dijon clones. Aged 11
months in French oak barrels, 100% new.
·
Very light golden yellow color in the glass. A more mineral driven
nose and palate compared to the regular Carneros bottling. Aromas of lemon-lime, pear and apple are
replicated in the flavors with added notes of green apple and a hint of smoky oak on the palate. Very polished
and classy, with a glorious finish filled with robust apple goodness.
Score: 93.
Reviewed August 6, 2017
ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.61, 25,000 cases,
$35. The foundation of this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard in Napa Carneros. Other fruit
sources include Beckstoffer Vineyards and Hudson Vineyards in Napa Carneros and Sangiacomo
Vineyards in Sonoma Carneros. Barrel fermented and aged with lees stirring for 9 months in French
oak barrels, 34% new.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas
of petrichor, apple, pear, white peach, straw and vanilla. Crisp and fresh on the palate, with apple-focused
flavor and very little oak overlay.
Score: 89.
Reviewed October 30, 2016
ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases,
$35. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new and 67% once and twice-filled.
·
Moderate
reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of black cherry liquor, spice and potpourri. Silky in
the mouth with immersed tannins, offering highly enjoyable flavors of black cherry, ripe strawberry
and boysenberry. Forward drinking with intense cherry goodness on the back end. When tasted
later in the day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the allure of vivid cherry and spice
flavors sent me for a second glass. I prefer this wine over the Reserve.
Score: 93.
Reviewed October 30, 2016
ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH
3.26, TA 0.61, 1,000 cases, $65. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels.
·
Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. More oak influence in this reserve wine, but it is not
overbearing. Aromas of apple, lemon curd and spice gather intensity over time in the glass. Refined,
seamless and sophisticated, with a tasty melange of citrus, apple, tropical fruit and spice flavors and
beautifully integrated oak accents. A classy wine that has all the best features of barrel fermentation.
Score: 94.
Reviewed October 30, 2016
ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA
0.60, 1,000 cases, $65. Lewis Vineyard is located near the shores of San Pablo Bay. Bought by Rich Frank in
2000 and named for Paul Frank’s son, Lewis, this 68-acre vineyard has 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir. Soils
are primarily shallow, dense clay loam and rainfall is limited to 20 inches annually resulting in very low yields.
Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once-filled.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in
the glass. A big boy, hedonistic wine with a plethora of blackberry, cassis and oak vanillin aromas and flavors.
The tannins and acidity keep the fruit corralled, such that the wine is relatively light on its feet. Totally different
from the regular bottling and well done in this generously oaked reserve style Pinot Noir.
Score: 91.
Reviewed October 30, 2016
ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.61, 5,000 cases,
$35. Aged 20 months in 100% French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once and twice-filled.
·
Moderate
reddish purple color in the glass. Captivating aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and spice
initially, fading some over time in the glass. An elegant offering featuring very ripe cherry and berry
fruit flavors with underlying hints of spice, savory mushrooms and toasty oak. Eminently like able and
approachable.
Score: 89.
Reviewed June 14, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Reserve Lewis Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.59,
1,000 cases, $65. Clones 115, 667, and 777. Aged 19 months in 100% French oak barrels, 50% new and 50%
once-filled.
·
Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose opens reluctantly over time to reveal
ever-expanding aromas of plum, dark berry jam, black raspberry preserves, and BBQ rub spices. An opulent,
full-bodied wine with deep berry and cherry flavors that fill every nook and cranny in the mouth. The oak is
beautifully integrated, offering a pleasurable seasoning. The luscious fruit really taps into the brain’s pleasure
centers and provides waves of goodness that last and last on the finish.
Score: 93.
Reviewed June 14, 2015
ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Reserve Lewis Vineyard Napa Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.23,
TA 0.64, 1,000 cases, $65. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels.
·
Light golden yellow
color in the glass. The nose exudes aromas of lemon oil, crème brûlée, honey and nutty oak. Discreetly lush
on the palate with a slightly viscous mouth feel, offering hi-tone fruit flavors of lemon, grapefruit, white peach
and pear. A very like able wine with good vibrancy, complimentary oak highlights, and a dry, thirst-quenching
finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed June 14, 2015
ARTICLE »
2012 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.57, 8,700 cases, $35. Aged
10 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice-filled French oak barrels.
·
Moderate reddish purple color in the
glass. There is a prominent oak overlay on the nose with demure aromas of Bing cherry. Richly fruited with a
cherry and boysenberry core accented with notes of cola and earth and a noticeable mantle of nutty oak. The
tannins are balanced and there is some fruit richness on the moderately long finish.
Score: 88.
Reviewed October 21, 2014
ARTICLE »
2012 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., pH 3.51, TA
0.60, 1,481 cases, $65. Aged 10 months in 50% new and 50% once-filled French oak barrels.
·
Moderately
dark reddish purple color in the glass. Clearly a step up in quality over the regular Carneros bottling with deep,
penetrating aromas of darker berries and cherries with a complimentary hint of spicy, smoky oak. A fruit-driven
wine of impressive flavor with layers of blueberry, black raspberry and plum fruit that is classy. An earthy,
savory undertone reflects a Carneros identity. The balance is spot on with integrated tannins, a healthy acid
spine, and plenty of fruit goodness hanging on through a long finish.
Score: 92.
Reviewed October 21, 2014
ARTICLE »
2011 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 26,300 cases, $35.
·
Moderately light reddish-purple color
in the glass. Aromas of pine-scented oak, black cherries, ollaliberries
and warm biscuit. Tasty with impressive fruit presence in a mid
weight style featuring flavors of black cherries and black raspberries
with a touch of spice and oak. Soft and smooth on the palate with
some finishing persistence. Good (+).
Reviewed April 13, 2013
ARTICLE »
2011 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.87, TA
0.59, $57.50. Aged 9 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice-filled French oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark
reddish-purple color in the glass. Very aromatic featuring bright scents of black raspberries and exotic spices.
Full-bodied core of lush raspberry fruit with an imposing oak imprint, finishing with a bit of heat. Decent.
Reviewed April 13, 2013
ARTICLE »
2010 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.75, TA 0.64, $35. Aged 12 months in
35% new and 65% once and twice filled oak barrels.
·
Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass.
Aromas of plum, black currant and rose petal. Plentiful flavors of plum and black raspberry with herbs in the
background. Relatively light in weight with soft tannins, leaving a little heat in its wake on the finish. Good.
Reviewed April 4, 2012
ARTICLE »
2010 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Reserve Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.,
pH 3.87, TA 0.59, $57.50. Aged 9 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice
filled French oak barrels.
·
Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Richly
perfumed with aromas of darker red and black Pinot fruits and spice cabinet.
Delicious core of ripe black plum, black cherry and black raspberry flavors
offering impressive mid palate intensity and finishing strength. Soft and velvety
in the mouth with supple tannins. Well-integrated oak. Only nit would be the
lack of uplifting acidity but this wine aims to seduce with its luscious fruit core.
Very good.
Reviewed April 4, 2012
ARTICLE »
2009 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc.,
$35. Frank Family Vineyards was founded in 1992 and owns over 200 acres of
vineyards in the Napa Valley. This wine is sourced from the Frank Family’s 138-
acre Lewis Vineyard, located in the heart of Napa Carneros, near the shores of
San Pablo Bay, and three other vineyards in the Carneros region. The
winemaker is Todd Graff. Aged 12 months in 35% new and 65% 1-year old and
2-year old French oak barrels.
·
Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Very
shy nose offering demure dark fruit aromas with a combination of brier, pine and
oak. Lovely core of black cherries and blackberries with the oak and pine
showing up again on the palate. An earthy meatiness is evident as well that
reflects the clay loam soils typical of Carneros Pinot. Light to medium in weight, the fruit flavors are flat-out
delicious and the dusty tannins and bright acidity add to the appeal. Definitely worth a look from a producer not
known for Pinot Noir. Very good.
Reviewed April 11, 2011
ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.61, 25,000 cases, $38. Barrel fermented in 34% new, 33% once and 33% twice-filled French oak barrels for 9 months. Aged on the lees with hand stirring regularly. · Very light golden yellow color in the glass. Exuberant aromas of pineapple, lemon drop, mango, butter creme and vanilla. A friendly wine that grows on you over time, offering flavors of lemon, pineapple and vanilla creme. The comforting texture is slightly oily and the acidity is well woven into the fabric of the wine. Score: 90. Reviewed July 20, 2019 ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases, $38. The foundation for this wine is the Sangiacomo Vineyard and Beckstoffer Vineyard located in the heart of Carneros. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once and twice-filled. · Moderately light garnet color in the glass. The nose leads with aromas of red cherry gumdrop, fertile soil and sandalwood. The mid weight essence of red cherry fruit is embellished with lavish oak. Silky in the mouth, with trim tannins and a modest finish. One thinks oak when drinking this wine. Score: 87. Reviewed July 20, 2019 ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Valley Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., $70. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Lively aromas of lemon curd, pineapple, Golden Delicious apple, and white flower blossom. Bright and vibrant in character with obvious class, offering flavors of lemon-lime, pear and green apple. A bit reserved in fruit intensity, yet offering upbeat vitality, and finishing with a pleasing cut of acidity on the finish. Score: 93. Reviewed July 20, 2019 ARTICLE »
2017 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Valley Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $70. Lewis Vineyard is 78 acres (68 acres of Chardonnay and 10 acres of Pinot Noir) located in the heart of Napa- Carneros near the shores of San Pablo Bay. Restricting soils of dense clay loam. Predominant maritime influence. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Lovely perfume of black cherry, cardamom spice and pipe smoke. Sleek and easily approachable in a mid weight style offering flavors of black cherry and boysenberry with mild toasty oak in the background. A commendable offering with nothing to criticize except that a slight sense of alcoholic warmth lingers at the end. Score: 92. Reviewed July 20, 2019 ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Beckstoffer Lake Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.44, TA 0.60, 200 cases, Wine Club only. Released March 2018. Inaugural bottling. Heavy bottle with embossed label. Barrel fermented in 50% new and 60% once-filled French oak barrels for 9 months. Regular lees stirring to promote depth. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. This wine has considerable “minerality” on the nose with aromas of riverbed, slate and lemon peel. Big and saucy for a Chardonnay, yet everything is kept in balance. The flavors of pear and apple and offer only subtle citrus notes. Creamy in the mouth from full malolactic fermentation. The wine’s bright acidity and firm structure holds the rich fruit in check. Stylistically, this wine is similar to the Lewis Vineyard Chardonnay, but but it is more in tune with my palate. Score: 94. Reviewed June 29, 2018 ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.66, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases, $38. The foundation for this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard located in Napa Carneros near the shores of San Pablo Bay. This 78-acre vineyard has 68 acres planted to Chardonnay and 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir. The wine was aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once and twice-filled. · Moderate garnet color in the glass. Perfume of black cherry, forest floor, and oak toast and spice. The middleweight, well-ripened flavors of black cherry and blueberry-pomegranate please with good intensity. Sleek in the mouth with engaging balance, a noticeable compliment of oak, and some finishing length. Score: 89. Reviewed April 15, 2018 ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.4% alc., pH 3.52, TA 0.62, 25,000 cases, $38. Barrel fermented in 34% new, 33% once and 33% twice-filled French oak barrels for 9 months. While aging on the lees, the wine was hand stirred regularly to promote depth and longevity. The winemaker is Todd Graff. · Moderate golden yellow color in the glass. Lovely aromas of lemon, white peach and jasmine. Welcome charge of lemon, pear, lychee, white peach, candied apple and spice flavors. Very congenial with valid balance and an air of sophistication. Even better when tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle. I can understand why this wine is so popular. Score: 93. Reviewed April 1, 2018 ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Carneros Reserve Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.53, TA 0.60, 1,000 cases, $65. Released March 2018. Heavy bottle with embossed label. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Lovely aromas of lemon curd, ripe yellow apple and crème brûlée. Creamy, and quite flavorful on the palate in a rich style popularized in California. Flavors of lemon, pineapple, tropical fruits and yellow grapefruit. Comforting to drink with a seductive mouth feel, but this is not particularly acid-driven wine as far as vibrancy or mineral content. The decadent fruit sops up the lavish oak such that the oak blends in and becomes complimentary. There are many fans who relish this style of Chardonnay. Score: 92. Reviewed June 29, 2018 ARTICLE »
2016 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Napa Valley Reserve Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.64, TA 0.59, 1,000 cases, $65. Released March 2018. Heavy bottle with embossed label. Clones 115, 667 and 777. Aged 10 months in 50% new and 50% once-filled French oak barrels. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Initially, the nose offers only toast and lite cigar aromas, but with swirling, ripe, black fruit aromas show up. Full-bodied, velvety and fat in the mouth with waves of blackberry and cassis fruit flavors. The oak is intrusive upon opening with flavors of vanilla and taste chiming in. The tannins are well-proportioned, the finish is not as intense as the fruit load would suggest and a bit of alcohol awareness peaks out at the end. The wine is accessible now but certainly should show less oak overlay with more time in bottle. Still, a lot of fruit and oak to get your arms around. Score: 89. Reviewed June 29, 2018 ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.56, $. Produced and bottled by Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, CA.. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new and 67% once and twice-filled. · Moderately dark garnet color in the glass. Soaring aromas of black strawberry, black cherry, blackberry and toasty oak. Luscious in the mouth, with the mid weight plus essence of black cherry and blackberry fruits. Enters better than it finishes but still satisfies. When tasted the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the oak overlay characters of dark chocolate, coffee and spice were more evident. Score: 89. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.56, TA 0.59, 1,000 cases, $. Produced and bottled by Frank Family Vineyards, Calistoga, CA.. Clones 115, 667 and 777. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once-filled. · Dark garnet color in the glass. Aromas of dark fruits and sweet oak lead off. Full-bodied and Syrah-like in concentration, with a no holds barred charge of purple and black fruits that thoroughly saturate the palate. The tannins are well matched and the finish is fruit-filled yet modest. The flavor profile is similar to the regular Carneros bottling, but ramped up fruit sap and oak. When sampled the following day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, oak notes of dark chocolate and coffee were prevalent. A wine for Pinot hedonists with a thing for oak. Score: 90. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.47, TA 0.64, $35. The foundation for this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard located in Napa Carneros near the shores of San Pablo Bay. 68 acres planted to Chardonnay and 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir. Other sources include Beckstoffer Vineyards and Hudson Vineyards in Napa Carneros, and Sangiacomo Vineyards in Sonoma Carneros. Barrel fermented and aged on the lees with hand stirring in French oak barrels, 34% new, 33% once-filled and 33% twice-filled. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Leading off are aromas of buttery brioche, lemon curd, poached pear, banana and burnt caramel. A rich and well-ripened style, yet easy going, with flavors of pear, yellow nectarine and cantaloupe embellished with meticulous integration of oak on the palate. Silky in the mouth with a modest, but juicy finish. Score: 90. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2015 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.32, TA 0.64, 1,000 cases, $65. The Lewis Vineyard was bought by Rich Frank in 2000 and named for Paul Frank’s son, Lewis. 58 acres are planted to Chardonnay in shallow and dense clay loam soils. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in French oak barrels, 100% new. · Very light golden yellow color in the glass. A more mineral driven nose and palate compared to the regular Carneros bottling. Aromas of lemon-lime, pear and apple are replicated in the flavors with added notes of green apple and a hint of smoky oak on the palate. Very polished and classy, with a glorious finish filled with robust apple goodness. Score: 93. Reviewed August 6, 2017 ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.46, TA 0.61, 25,000 cases, $35. The foundation of this wine is the Frank Family’s Lewis Vineyard in Napa Carneros. Other fruit sources include Beckstoffer Vineyards and Hudson Vineyards in Napa Carneros and Sangiacomo Vineyards in Sonoma Carneros. Barrel fermented and aged with lees stirring for 9 months in French oak barrels, 34% new. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. Nicely perfumed with aromas of petrichor, apple, pear, white peach, straw and vanilla. Crisp and fresh on the palate, with apple-focused flavor and very little oak overlay. Score: 89. Reviewed October 30, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.63, TA 0.59, 5,000 cases, $35. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 33% new and 67% once and twice-filled. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Lovely aromas of black cherry liquor, spice and potpourri. Silky in the mouth with immersed tannins, offering highly enjoyable flavors of black cherry, ripe strawberry and boysenberry. Forward drinking with intense cherry goodness on the back end. When tasted later in the day from a previously opened and re-corked bottle, the allure of vivid cherry and spice flavors sent me for a second glass. I prefer this wine over the Reserve. Score: 93. Reviewed October 30, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.26, TA 0.61, 1,000 cases, $65. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels. · Moderately light golden yellow color in the glass. More oak influence in this reserve wine, but it is not overbearing. Aromas of apple, lemon curd and spice gather intensity over time in the glass. Refined, seamless and sophisticated, with a tasty melange of citrus, apple, tropical fruit and spice flavors and beautifully integrated oak accents. A classy wine that has all the best features of barrel fermentation. Score: 94. Reviewed October 30, 2016 ARTICLE »
2014 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.55, TA 0.60, 1,000 cases, $65. Lewis Vineyard is located near the shores of San Pablo Bay. Bought by Rich Frank in 2000 and named for Paul Frank’s son, Lewis, this 68-acre vineyard has 10 acres planted to Pinot Noir. Soils are primarily shallow, dense clay loam and rainfall is limited to 20 inches annually resulting in very low yields. Aged 10 months in French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once-filled. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. A big boy, hedonistic wine with a plethora of blackberry, cassis and oak vanillin aromas and flavors. The tannins and acidity keep the fruit corralled, such that the wine is relatively light on its feet. Totally different from the regular bottling and well done in this generously oaked reserve style Pinot Noir. Score: 91. Reviewed October 30, 2016 ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.68, TA 0.61, 5,000 cases, $35. Aged 20 months in 100% French oak barrels, 33% new, 67% once and twice-filled. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. Captivating aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and spice initially, fading some over time in the glass. An elegant offering featuring very ripe cherry and berry fruit flavors with underlying hints of spice, savory mushrooms and toasty oak. Eminently like able and approachable. Score: 89. Reviewed June 14, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Reserve Lewis Vineyard Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.58, TA 0.59, 1,000 cases, $65. Clones 115, 667, and 777. Aged 19 months in 100% French oak barrels, 50% new and 50% once-filled. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. The nose opens reluctantly over time to reveal ever-expanding aromas of plum, dark berry jam, black raspberry preserves, and BBQ rub spices. An opulent, full-bodied wine with deep berry and cherry flavors that fill every nook and cranny in the mouth. The oak is beautifully integrated, offering a pleasurable seasoning. The luscious fruit really taps into the brain’s pleasure centers and provides waves of goodness that last and last on the finish. Score: 93. Reviewed June 14, 2015 ARTICLE »
2013 Frank Family Vineyards Reserve Lewis Vineyard Napa Carneros Chardonnay
14.5% alc., pH 3.23, TA 0.64, 1,000 cases, $65. Dijon clones. Aged 11 months in 100% new French oak barrels. · Light golden yellow color in the glass. The nose exudes aromas of lemon oil, crème brûlée, honey and nutty oak. Discreetly lush on the palate with a slightly viscous mouth feel, offering hi-tone fruit flavors of lemon, grapefruit, white peach and pear. A very like able wine with good vibrancy, complimentary oak highlights, and a dry, thirst-quenching finish. Score: 92. Reviewed June 14, 2015 ARTICLE »
2012 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.59, TA 0.57, 8,700 cases, $35. Aged 10 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice-filled French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish purple color in the glass. There is a prominent oak overlay on the nose with demure aromas of Bing cherry. Richly fruited with a cherry and boysenberry core accented with notes of cola and earth and a noticeable mantle of nutty oak. The tannins are balanced and there is some fruit richness on the moderately long finish. Score: 88. Reviewed October 21, 2014 ARTICLE »
2012 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.2% alc., pH 3.51, TA 0.60, 1,481 cases, $65. Aged 10 months in 50% new and 50% once-filled French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish purple color in the glass. Clearly a step up in quality over the regular Carneros bottling with deep, penetrating aromas of darker berries and cherries with a complimentary hint of spicy, smoky oak. A fruit-driven wine of impressive flavor with layers of blueberry, black raspberry and plum fruit that is classy. An earthy, savory undertone reflects a Carneros identity. The balance is spot on with integrated tannins, a healthy acid spine, and plenty of fruit goodness hanging on through a long finish. Score: 92. Reviewed October 21, 2014 ARTICLE »
2011 Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Napa Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., 26,300 cases, $35. · Moderately light reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of pine-scented oak, black cherries, ollaliberries and warm biscuit. Tasty with impressive fruit presence in a mid weight style featuring flavors of black cherries and black raspberries with a touch of spice and oak. Soft and smooth on the palate with some finishing persistence. Good (+). Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »
2011 Frank Family Vineyards Lewis Vineyard Reserve Napa Carneros Pinot Noir
14.7% alc., pH 3.87, TA 0.59, $57.50. Aged 9 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice-filled French oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Very aromatic featuring bright scents of black raspberries and exotic spices. Full-bodied core of lush raspberry fruit with an imposing oak imprint, finishing with a bit of heat. Decent. Reviewed April 13, 2013 ARTICLE »
2010 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.75, TA 0.64, $35. Aged 12 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice filled oak barrels. · Moderately dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Aromas of plum, black currant and rose petal. Plentiful flavors of plum and black raspberry with herbs in the background. Relatively light in weight with soft tannins, leaving a little heat in its wake on the finish. Good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »
2010 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Reserve Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., pH 3.87, TA 0.59, $57.50. Aged 9 months in 35% new and 65% once and twice filled French oak barrels. · Dark reddish-purple color in the glass. Richly perfumed with aromas of darker red and black Pinot fruits and spice cabinet. Delicious core of ripe black plum, black cherry and black raspberry flavors offering impressive mid palate intensity and finishing strength. Soft and velvety in the mouth with supple tannins. Well-integrated oak. Only nit would be the lack of uplifting acidity but this wine aims to seduce with its luscious fruit core. Very good. Reviewed April 4, 2012 ARTICLE »
2009 Frank Family Vineyards Napa Valley Carneros Pinot Noir
14.5% alc., $35. Frank Family Vineyards was founded in 1992 and owns over 200 acres of vineyards in the Napa Valley. This wine is sourced from the Frank Family’s 138- acre Lewis Vineyard, located in the heart of Napa Carneros, near the shores of San Pablo Bay, and three other vineyards in the Carneros region. The winemaker is Todd Graff. Aged 12 months in 35% new and 65% 1-year old and 2-year old French oak barrels. · Moderate reddish-purple hue in the glass. Very shy nose offering demure dark fruit aromas with a combination of brier, pine and oak. Lovely core of black cherries and blackberries with the oak and pine showing up again on the palate. An earthy meatiness is evident as well that reflects the clay loam soils typical of Carneros Pinot. Light to medium in weight, the fruit flavors are flat-out delicious and the dusty tannins and bright acidity add to the appeal. Definitely worth a look from a producer not known for Pinot Noir. Very good. Reviewed April 11, 2011 ARTICLE »