Sleeper Cab from Napa Valley

I think it is fair to say that the 2010 Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon is somewhat of an anomaly.  It is a very consistently very-good-to-terrific Cabernet from the heart of Napa Valley that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg.  Although it retails for approximately $28, I have been able to locate the 2010 Franciscan and several of its previous vintages for less than $20, putting it within striking distance of our typical Value Wines.   This is a medium-to-full bodied Cab with a relatively low alcohol content of 13.5% that displays a finesse that includes balance and a satisfying and lengthy finish.  While perhaps not quite as impressive as the highly rated 2007 and 2008 vintages, the 2010 Franciscan nevertheless is an excellent “go to” or house Cabernet, garnering a solid 89 rating from Wine Enthusiast.  That publication is obviously a fan of the Franciscan Cab, describing it thusly: “Good price for a Cabernet this elegant and classy. It’s not something for the cellar, but offers everything it has now, with ripe blackberry, black currant and cedar flavors that are wrapped into sturdy, smooth tannins.”   You can grab this one and enjoy it immediately.