The sumptuous, sweet textured, expansive, rich 2001 Cabernet Franc is the finest example of this varietal I have tasted from Beringer. (Release date 2/05) Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

The 2000 Cabernet Franc is uninspiring. (Release date 2/04) Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

The 1999 Cabernet Franc is decent, herbaceous and compact. (Release date 2/03) Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

The 1997 Cabernet Franc Howell Mountain is cut from the same mold as the 1995 and 1996. Spicy, with ripe fruit and intelligently put together, it is not quite as extracted or as flavorful as the 1995 or 1996. However, it should put on more weight after additional cask aging. The single vineyard Cabernet Francs from Howell Mountain are aged in 100% new French oak, which has been soaked up nicely. They are charming, softer, less extracted offering than the single vineyard Merlots or Cabernet Sauvignons. Nevertheless, they are not wimpish wines. Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735

Finesse, elegance, spice, and fruit character can be found in the medium-bodied 1996 Cabernet Franc Howell Mountain. However, its aromatics include a slight touch of menthol/mint. Drink this stylish wine over the next 7-8 years. The single vineyard Cabernet Francs from Howell Mountain are aged in 100% new French oak, which has been soaked up nicely. They are charming, softer, less extracted offering than the single vineyard Merlots or Cabernet Sauvignons. Nevertheless, they are not wimpish wines. Tel. (707) 963-7115; Fax (707) 963-1735