Poor misunderstood Cabernet Franc "can't get no respect." For years, winemakers couldn't figure out where to plant it and how to treat it, and most consumers didn't find much reason to want to drink it on its own. Sure, it's a great blending grape, everyone thought, but can it really stand on its own? John and Tracey Skupney of Lang and Reed Wine Company certainly think so. In fact, they're so convinced that they've made it their flagship wine: a bold move amongst Napa neighbors who almost unanimously anchor their brand on Cabernet Sauvignon. "It's definitely the Rodney Dangerfield of the varietals," John says. But when done right, (as Lang & Reed is), Cabernet Franc rivals, even trumps, great Cabernet Sauvignon by providing more dried herb, tobacco, graphite and pepper notes behind berry fruit. It's the savory side of the Cabernet family, and savory deserves some respect.
