Blackbird Vineyards Paramour 2011

71% Cabernet Franc, 19% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Blackbird Vineyards' Paramour possesses both sensuality and commanding structure. Cabernet franc and merlot have a fragile but irresistible chemistry that flourishes when climate, soils, and seasons align. Paramour reveals the passionate relationship between winegrower and the land. "Wine and the sensous go hand in hand."

The 2011 Paramour offers exquisite aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and tobacco. This authentic expression of Cabernet Franc showcases textured layers of chocolate and nutmeg, combined with fine-grained tannin and cedar overlay. The supple finish is round and balanced, providing persistent length of flavor. Paramour will continue to develop with time in the bottle for the next decade or more. The cooler-than-normal 2011 Napa Valley grape-growing season concluded in an expedited harvest. The outcome was a vintage with flavors developed at lower brix, resulting in truly elegant wines with European-style texture and great complexity.