![Buty Merlot Cabernet Franc 2011 (Walla Walla, Columbia Valley, Washington) - [RP 91]](http://artisan.wine/cdn/shop/products/BUTYMERLOTCABERNETFRANC2011_{width}x.png?v=1624336056)
Buty Merlot Cabernet Franc 2011
(Walla Walla, Columbia Valley, Washington) - [RP 91]
Regular price $45.00 Sale price $39.97 Save $5.03
12-PACK PRICE = $38.97 per item (add 12+ quantity to your basket)
Tasting Notes:
While the majority of this blend is merlot, the intensity of the cabernet franc in 2011 is amazing. Not only does it add a vivid floral component to the wine, but it brings a rare blueberry note that underscores the dark berry and jam aromas of the merlot. New oak aging for select lots contributes citrus and cinnamon spice layers, with cool vintage acidity adding poise and precision. The mid-palate is juicy and rich, with plush tannins that lead to a long, sophisticated finish, with hints of blackberry, brioche and spice.
Grape Varietals: 67% Merlot & 33% Cabernet Franc
Ratings & Reviews
91 Points - Robert Parker's Wine Advocate:
"The 2011 Merlot Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard (labeled simply “Conner Lee Vineyard”) is a blend of 67% Merlot and 33% Cabernet Franc that spent 15 months in one-third new French oak. Semi-opaque purple in color, it offers up an energetic profile with blackberry, tobacco, underbrush, pepper and floral nuances leading to a medium-bodied, elegant and deftly textured palate that has juicy acidity, good balance and a clean finish. Vibrant and perfumed, it is already approachable and delicious, yet should continue to impress for 7-8 years, possibly upwards of a decade. Drink now-2020.
This estate is now run solely by Nina Buty Foster, with Chris Dowsett functioning as the winemaker. The wines lean heavily towards the elegant, borderline lean, end of the spectrum so those looking for overflowing richness need to look elsewhere. Nevertheless, they feature gorgeous purity of fruit, energetic textures and overall beautifully made profiles." - Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2013)
"The 2011 Merlot Cabernet Franc Conner Lee Vineyard (labeled simply “Conner Lee Vineyard”) is a blend of 67% Merlot and 33% Cabernet Franc that spent 15 months in one-third new French oak. Semi-opaque purple in color, it offers up an energetic profile with blackberry, tobacco, underbrush, pepper and floral nuances leading to a medium-bodied, elegant and deftly textured palate that has juicy acidity, good balance and a clean finish. Vibrant and perfumed, it is already approachable and delicious, yet should continue to impress for 7-8 years, possibly upwards of a decade. Drink now-2020.
This estate is now run solely by Nina Buty Foster, with Chris Dowsett functioning as the winemaker. The wines lean heavily towards the elegant, borderline lean, end of the spectrum so those looking for overflowing richness need to look elsewhere. Nevertheless, they feature gorgeous purity of fruit, energetic textures and overall beautifully made profiles." - Jeb Dunnuck (Jun 2013)