Christopher Barnes makes wine in the middle of acclaimed Pinot Noir country near Carlton, Ore., yet five of the nine Platinum Awards won in the past three years by the self-described contrarian have been for work with Bordeaux varieties. He sources from the east side of the Cascades for this fragrant and well-structured Cabernet Franc, offering notes of sizzling bacon, a pine forest after a spring rain and Bing cherry, backed by dark plum. It is finished with intense allspice and juiciness. The Barnes family suggests serving this with Bison steak tartine with basil paprika butter. Qualifying award: Pacific Northwest (double gold)
Rating: Platinum • 91 points
Production: 54 cases
Alcohol: 14.2%
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