BookCliff at Three Leaf Farm

We had a lovely time at the Three Leaf Farm dinner in Lafayette. The farm is a gem tugged away at the South edge of Lafayette, next to 287; but you would never guess as you are charmed by all the farm animals (horses, goats and chicken) and the rows of prospering vegetables. The theme of the dinner was mushrooms to stay with the season. Every course introduced new flavors and showcased the versatility of mushrooms including the dessert with a mushroom meringue and surrounded by mushroom dust. The brisket and the Wellington portabella mushroom was a perfect pairing with the BookCliff Vineyards Cabernet Franc Reserve 2012.

Colorado Terroir Similar to Argentina

It is all in the soil. And the climate. And not to forget the elevation. When we visited the vineyards in Mendoza, Argentina we were surprised to find similar growing conditions. Sandy loam soil with rocks embedded and a dry, arid climate requiring irrigation during the entire growing season. Argentina, especially in the Uco valley can boast more rocks, through the rocks are fewer in Colorado they are bigger. Both areas depend on the run off from the snow pack in the mountains, which feeds into the Colorado river and flows right through Palisade. In Mendoza the consensus is that grapes grown in higher elevations make better wine. The highest locations in the Uco valley, 45 minutes South of Mendoza are at 4900 feet. The BookCliff Vineyards in Palisade are at 4600 feet. As a result Colorado wines taste more like the wines in Mendoza than in California and the same grape varieties are used to make world class wine - Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot.

Grape Varieties that do well in Colorado and Argentina

Not surprising the grape varieties that thrive in Argentina also thrive in Colorado. These are Malbec, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc and also Merlot. When it comes to white varieties, Chardonnay comes out at the top. As Malbec is not as cold hardy as Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc, Malbec grows more successfully in Mendoza where the winters are warmer compared to Palisade. The wines made from Malbec are beautiful in both places. Colorado has carved out itself a niche with Cabernet Franc which has been recognized as the signature red grape in Colorado. Mendoza is just discovering Cabernet Franc as an alternative to Malbec.

2012 Cabernet Franc Release

We've kept you waiting long enough! After a long, fun day of bottling with our staff and volunteers, Cabernet Franc 2012 is ready to be tasted and purchased! This varietal is one of the major grapes grown worldwide, and grows especially well in Colorado. It has been known to be a great competitor in wine judging events and as a Reserve label in Colorado wineries. Our 2012 exhibits nice raspberry, cherry and mocha notes on the nose. It also has some nice acidity on the palate to complement the dark fruit and smooth tannins. Barrel aged for 18 months in French Oak, this wine's many layers is sure to please your senses! Cheers!