Tulip White Franc Released (K)
08.07.2011
By: Daniel Rogov
Just about everyone is writing about Tulip's recently released "White Franc", so perhaps the time has come for me to do the same. It is probably just as well that I could not attend the official unveiling of the wine. That unveiling took place at the Manta Ray restaurant within two meters of the shore of the Mediterranean, the lively salt-sea breeze always running strong there and perhaps interfering with the ability to taste and analyze the wine. The unveiling also took place in the presence of a good many mezes, many quite highly spiced, that too likely to have an impact on the aromas and flavors of the wines. Fortunately, however, I had pre-release tastings of the wine on two occasions and my tasting notes were consistent.
Before the notes, however, three comments.
1. It has been said that the wine was made half-dry because it is precisely such wines that appeal mostly to women of nearly all ages. Agreed that some women will like wines that are in this pattern but then again so will some men. I am opposed to invalid research or marketing statements that give one sex or the other a specific desire for a specific pattern of wine.
2. I am not opposed to making half-dry whites so long as those wines represent their variety. To my palate this wine is not at all traditional of Cabernet Franc.
3. Following 1 and 2, I cannot help but wonder what decisions led to the making of this wine.
Following is my tasting note for the wine in question.
Best
Rogov
Tulip, White Franc, 2010: Medium-bodied, off-dry, a partly blanc de noirs wine, a blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Sauvignon Blanc. Shows an aromatic nose and opens in the glass to reveal aromas and flavors of citrus, red berries and earthy minerals. Lacks the balancing acidity that might have made the wine more lively. Best served "on the rocks." Drink now. Score 84. K |
I buy Israeli wines in my country (Not for Israelis)
