Blackbird Paramour 2016

Complex aromas of blueberry, violets, espresso, and eucalyptus encircle the nose of this elegant Cabernet Franc blend. Layers of Bing cherry, blackberry and savoury herbs combine with fine-grained tannins on the palate, leading to a round, supple finish with persistent length. Blend: 84% Cabernet Franc, 9% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot.

95 Points - Wilfred Wong of Wine    I have often wondered in California could create some Right Bank magic? Since Cabernet Sauvignon has gone unchallenged for so long, how could Cabernet Franc measure up? The 2016 Blackbird Vineyards Paramour—made with 82% Cabernet Franc—is proof that the Golden State can do this. This is a magnificent wine. Its beautiful and refined aromas and flavors of ripe black fruit and anise stay lovingly long on the palate. Pair it with a delicious Porchetta and enjoy the wizardry of exceptional winemaking. 

94 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate    Composed of 82% Cabernet Franc, 15% Merlot and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2016 Paramour Proprietary Red is deep garnet-purple colored and features notes of tar, tilled black soil, fungi and oolong tea over a core of red and black currants, black raspberries and crushed plums. Medium-bodied with a chewy, stewed tea-laced frame, it delivers loads of bright, refreshing flavors and a quiet, earthy intensity on the finish.

91 Points - Wine & Spirits    Aaron Pott selects the fruit for this wine from four vineyards: Shiflett in Yountville, Crocker & Starr in St. Helena, Hudson in Carneros and Stagecoach in the eastern hills. It’s mostly cabernet franc (82 percent), blended with merlot and a little cabernet sauvignon, the fruit dark and intense, with cumin-like spice, a blueberry liqueur note and round, honeyed sweetness. Plush and rich.