Team C&J
California’s wine industry is often dominated by discussions about Napa and Sonoma, but just to the south lies Lodi—a region that has quietly become a powerhouse of quality wine production. Known primarily for its old vine Zinfandels, Lodi is now gaining recognition for its ability to produce exceptional wines from a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Franc. The 2021 Inkblot Cabernet Franc by Michael David Winery stands as a shining example of what this region can offer: a bold, expressive wine that brings the best of this lesser-known varietal to the forefront.
Michael David Winery, located in Lodi, California, is a family-owned operation producing wines for over 150 years. Founded by the Phillips family, who have farmed the Lodi land since the 1860s, the winery is known for its robust, full-bodied wines. Winemaker Sean Goehring has been instrumental in elevating the winery’s offerings to new heights. Goehring’s approach is rooted in a deep respect for the land and meticulous attention to detail, evident in this wine.
One of the hallmarks of Goehring’s winemaking at Michael David Winery is his ability to craft wines that are both accessible and complex, appealing to a wide range of palates while also offering depth and intrigue for more seasoned wine drinkers. His wines often feature bold, fruit-forward profiles with layers of spice, earth, and oak, reflecting the unique terroir of Lodi and the diverse array of grape varietals grown in the region. Whether it’s a rich, full-bodied Zinfandel or a crisp, aromatic white, Goehring’s wines are always a true reflection of the land and the people who cultivate it.
Lodi is a wine region that often flies under the radar, overshadowed by its more famous neighbors to the north. However, this AVA (American Viticultural Area) is a gem in its own right, characterized by a Mediterranean climate with warm days and cool nights, ideal for growing a variety of grapes. The region’s sandy loam soils provide excellent drainage, which, combined with the climate, allows for the production of grapes with intense flavors and balanced acidity.
One of our favorite grapes, Cabernet Franc, while often overshadowed by its more famous cousin, Cabernet Sauvignon, thrives in Lodi. The grape is known for producing wines with a lighter body and a more nuanced, complex profile.
Its deep ruby color hints at the intensity of the flavors to come. The nose is a complex bouquet of black cherry, blackberry, and olive, with underlying notes of oak and tobacco. The wine has been aged for 18 months in 100% French oak barrels, 37% of which are new.
Appearance: The Inkblot Cabernet Franc presents a deep, almost opaque ruby color that is both inviting and indicative of its richness. The intensity of the color is striking, setting the stage for the bold experience that follows.
Nose: On the nose, the wine is nothing short of intoxicating. A pronounced bouquet of ripe black cherry and blackberry dominates, underpinned by savory notes of olive and a touch of tobacco. The influence of the French oak is evident, with subtle hints of vanilla and a smoky undertone that adds depth and complexity. As the wine opens up, these aromas evolve, revealing layers of spice and a faint earthiness that speaks to its Lodi origins.
Palate: On the palate, the 2021 Inkblot Cabernet Franc is dry, with a medium-minus acidity that provides a refreshing counterbalance to the wine’s full body. The tannins are high but well-integrated, offering structure without overpowering the fruit. The flavor intensity is pronounced, with an explosion of blackberry and allspice at the forefront. This is followed by black pepper and vanilla, with a lingering finish that showcases notes of cigar box and oak. The alcohol content is high at 15%, yet it is well-balanced, providing warmth without overshadowing the wine’s other elements.
Finish: The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of dark fruit, spice, and subtle oak. The wine’s complexity continues to unfold long after the last sip, making it a wine that is both thought-provoking and immensely enjoyable.
The 2021 Inkblot Cabernet Franc is a standout wine that showcases the best of what Lodi has to offer. It is a wine that is both bold and nuanced, with a complexity that belies its price point. Winemaker Sean Goehring has crafted a wine that is sure to please both fans of Cabernet Franc and those who are new to the varietal. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for a few years, this is a wine that promises to deliver a memorable experience.
USA
Lodi
Cabernet Franc
15
Sean Goehring
62–68°F / 16–20°C
Burgundy
60 Minutes
Now to 2030
Michael David Winery
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