I kicked off my New Year tasting with a varietal that I enjoy, but rarely pour: Cabernet Franc.
It’s a grape that gets little respect or notice on its own but serves as the backbone for some big wines, like Cheval Blanc – and a handful of other famed Bordeaux wines.
Still, when well made, wine conjured from the Cab Franc grape is luscious, with great cherry and berry aromas – and additional notes of spice, tobacco smoke and herbs.
On the palate, it presents more rustic than refined – but still retains bountiful character and pleasing flavors.
Robust performance in colder climates has attracted the attention of growers in sympathetic zones around New York, Michigan, Washington – and even Virginia.
I tasted R & B Cellars 2006 Cabernet Franc from California, which, to my taste, epitomizes the best characteristics of Cab Franc.
It was a mouthful of blackberry fruit, which quickly began to offer the warm sensation of spices. Not at all jammy, but still possessing intense fruit, the wine offered balance and complexity – thanks to a 14-month rest in oak (60 percent new; 40 percent two-years-old).
Available for around $24.

Tastings
Last week I reported that there would be several upcoming chances to keep a New Year’s resolution of attending a tasting event. Here is a trio to consider:

Wednesday, Jan. 14, 6:30-8:30, Saya Lounge, 109 W. Broughton St., $20/pp
Join host Jovencio Mercado of Saya Lounge to sample the highly accessible portfolio of wines from prominent South African vineyard Savanha.
Four Savanha wines will be poured: Steen (Chenin Blanc), Chardonnay, Shiraz and Pinotage/Shiraz. Accompanying the wine tasting will be appetizers from Zunzi’s.
Call Saya at 236-7272.

Thursday, Jan. 15, 6:30 p.m., Ruth’s Chris Steak House, 111 W. Bay St., $100/pp
Rich, complex wines have been the hallmark of the Lambert Bridge Winery since its founding in 1969. Today, this northern Sonoma, family-owned winery continues that legacy with a portfolio of wines that demonstrate winemaker Jill Davis’ consummate knowledge.
Dinner showcases six Lambert Bridge wines across five courses. Wines range from Chardonnay and Viognier through the winery’s big, bold Merlot, luxurious Crane Creek Cuvee (a MerlotCabernet Sauvignon blend) and the juicy 2006 Dry Creek Zin.
This dinner is an excellent value and a perfect opportunity to sample these wines – and learn more about the winery from managing partner Andy Wilcox.
Call Ruth’s Chris for reservations, 721-4800.

Tuesday, Jan. 20, 6-8 p.m., B. Matthew’s Eatery, 325 E. Bay St., $15/flight
This casual gathering of wine lovers will feature a crisp Sauvignon Blanc flight:
2006 Stephen Vincent, a blend of Central Coast and Lake County grapes.
2007 Merieau, a French expression of Sauv Blanc. This single parcel harvest from the Loire Valley is an affordable alternative to Sancerre.
2006 Pomelo, a nicely acidic 100 percent Sauv Blanc from Lake County.
No reservation is required.

E-mail Tim at savannahfoodie@comcast.net.