We decided to tighten up our already-strict selection criteria even more and raise the hurdle for any barrel to make it into the final blends of our flagship wines: Père de Famille and Clos de Betz, our three Syrahs and Bésoleil. The new standards have reduced the amount of these wines and provide the ability to take overall quality to the next level. Barrels that don’t make it into our flagship wines have been blended to make Cuvée Frangin; barrels that don’t meet these new rigorous criteria are sold off as usual.

The results are exciting, uniting the classic varieties that we’ve made and matured side by side every vintage. Our new Washington red blend, Cuvée Frangin (koo-vay frahn-jhan), unites the aromatic complexity and structure of our Bordeaux varieties with the supple mouthfeel of Syrah. The individual wines in the blend have long been separate parts of our family portfolio, and now they weave together seamlessly, providing a compelling richness and balance.

We crafted Cuvée Frangin in a more approachable style using multiple varieties, less new oak, and an overall gentler approach. It is designed to be enjoyed younger but will age for several years.

Blending Detail and Aging Profile

Blending Detail:

• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Petit Verdot
• Merlot
• Syrah

Barrel Program:

• 100% French oak barrels
• 20% new oak
• 80% one fill (one year neutralized oak), for 12 months

Aging Profile:

• Best Now through 2018
• Serve cool, 60-62°F

AVA & Vineyard Detail:

The wine is a blend of Bordeaux varieties and Syrah sourced from some of the most famous vineyards in the Columbia Valley, includung Ciel du Cheval, Kiona and Klipsun on Red Mountain, Red Willow, Du Brul, Boushey and Olsen in Yakima Valley, Alder Ridge in the Horse Heaven Hills and Upland on Snipes Mountain.