The Carneros Duo of Frank Family Vineyards

Winemaker Todd Graff has been making the wines at Frank Family Vineyards since 2003. The family calls him "our magician", which is a pretty endearing - as well as appropriate - term for a someone who orchestrates the production of about twenty very different wines every vintage. Not only does Todd utilize a wide array of varieties, he makes four sparkling wines, a port and a late harvest wine in addition to all of the still wines! This newly-released duo offers ready-to-enjoy, juicy pleasure for Carneros-appellated wines, which can sometimes be a bit austere in fruit in their early days.

88
Frank Family Vineyards 2018 Chardonnay Carneros 14.4% $38
Lush on the entry, this layered Chardonnay tastes of sweet challah bread topped with creamy Normandy butter then freshly roasted, cinnamon-dusted apples. The texture is just as mouthcoating as it sounds, and it is nicely complemented by a mealy mid-palate. It's a sensuous wine for sure. The balanced acidity brings on just enough refreshment to keep you going back to the glass.
Drink: 2020-22 

87
Frank Family Vineyards 2018 Pinot Noir Carneros 14.5% $38
This wine talks typicity: it smells like a sappy Californian wine, and it feels texturally like a very tightly structured Pinot Noir. Aromas of boysenberry and mulberry grip the nose then lead to the same flavors on the palate with compliments of twiggy branches and bits of leather. The finish is surprisingly crisp and fairly short. Perfectly pleasant, if not profound, this Pinot Noir is best with food given its raspy tannins.
Drink: 2020-21