Detert Family, Cabernet Franc, “east Block,” Oakville 2018

From the record

DETERT FAMILY, CABERNET FRANC, “EAST BLOCK,” OAKVILLE 2018 is documented in the Cartelier archive as served at Protégé in Palo Alto, CA. It appears on the menu of October 31, 2021, one of 6 items served that wine. As printed, the kitchen describes it: The Detert "East Block” is a 7-acre parcel of old-vine Cabernet Franc within the historic To Kalon Vineyard. Planted in 1949, this is believed to be the first planting of Cabernet Franc in Napa Valley. In 2009, winemaker Tom Garrett began holding back one barrel of East Block so that he could showcase the extraordinary quality of these heritage vines and pay homage to the vineyard’s history. The exceptionally well-drained alluvial soils of the East Block, situated on the famed Oakville Bench, produce a powerful, incredibly complex and sophisticated Cabernet Franc. This wine dazzles with aromas of violets, sage, dark berries, bittersweet-chocolate, and anise. IDEAL DRINKING WINDOW: 2028-2038 PAIRING RECOMMENDATIONS: The rich flavor and high tannin in Cabernet Sauvignon make it a perfect partner for rich grilled meats and flavorful sauces. Its savory qualities like tobacco and black pepper pair well with foods high in umami. Think Marinated Ribeye Steak with Sauce au Poivre! DECANT: 1-2 hours in advance STEMWARE: Large Bordeaux glasses, ideally Zalto Denk’Art Bordeaux or Riedel Sommeliers Bordeaux Grand Cru IDEAL SERVICE TEMPERATURE: 65°F. Every appearance below preserves the menu exactly as published — source, hash, and date — so this dish can be read as it stood on any documented evening.