CHATEAU CRISTI | Cabernet Franc | 2020
cabernet franc

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Nestled in the heart of Moldova, Chateau Cristi carries forward a winemaking legacy rooted in centuries of family tradition and a deep connection to the land. The winery’s story is interwoven with the legend of the ‘Guardian of Life,’ an immortal spirit believed to protect their vineyards. This mystical figure, depicted on the Family Reserve labels, symbolizes the devotion, honor, and respect for nature that guides their craft.
Today we are going to review a single-varietal cabernet franc wine from the Valul lui Traian region, situated in the south of Moldova – Cabernet Franc 2020 by Chateau Cristi. The ‘other cabernet’ grape, cabernet franc is the parent grape for the two famous varieties: cabernet sauvignon and merlot. It is less intense and softer than cabernet sauvignon and it ripens much earlier, while it is also much more resistant to winter cold and frost than merlot. One thing that makes cabernet franc unique is that it can’t hide its nature – it has always been a bit more peppery, more savory and leaner than its pedigree children, due to the higher levels of pyrazines (which is an aromatic organic compound) inherited by the variety’s DNA. In order to preserve the varietal characteristics of the grape variety, the wine has been aged for 12 months in a combination of Transylvanian and French oak barrels, with additional bottle ageing time before it was deemed ready for the market release.

Valul lui Traian IGP boasts a warm continental climate that is ideal for viticulture, especially suited for red grape varieties. The region’s geography forms a harmonious balance between warm summer days and cool nights, which is essential for achieving optimal ripeness and for the development of rich flavors in the grapes. The soils here are fertile, predominantly chernozem mixed with clay and loam, ensuring good water retention and providing the necessary nutrients to the vines while also contributing a slight minerality to the wines. Compared to similar wines from other regions, those from Valul lui Traian area showcase a robust aromatic intensity brought by the unique climatic and soil characteristics of the region.

color: medium-transparent ruby color
clarity: hazy ruby shades at the rim

In the glass, the wine presents a medium-transparent ruby color, suggesting moderate concentration and youthfulness, with hazy ruby shades, at the rim of the glass.

intensity: rich & oaky
fruit character: ripe

The olfactory profile is rich and pronounced, dominated by oak-driven aromas intertwined with ripe fruit. The foreground bursts with a medley of red and black fruits – dark cherry, plum, cranberry, and blackberry – which are complemented by notes derived from the barrel ageing: vanilla, sweet tobacco, cloves, toasted oakwood, nutmeg, and even some hints of coconut, underscored by a distinct sweet spice accent. In the background, earthy nuances emerge with notes of dust, clay, and loam, alongside baking spices and an intriguing whiff of wood varnish.

sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: medium | balance: good
finish: medium+ | aftertaste: crisp

On the palate, the wine confirms its youthful character with a crisp and vibrant mouthfeel. It feels dry, with crisp acidity that lends freshness and structure. A touch of alcoholic warmth indicates a medium-to-full body, which makes the wine taste lean and voluptuous. The tannins are silky and well-integrated, providing a smooth glide across the palate, with a subtle phenolic bitterness emerges on the finish. The overall impression is one of good structure and balance between the core elements, but the flavour profile is heavily skewed towards the oaky and spicy notes identified on the nose, which tend to dominate the fruit and mask the distinct Cabernet Franc varietal characteristics. The finish is clean, velvety and crisp.

maturity: developing | drink now or within the next 2 to 3 years
verdict: fine | an excellent wine | a wine of premium quality with good potential

Overall, this is a nicely balanced wine that showcases its oak ageing prominently, while displaying a rich nose and a vibrant, crisp palate. the wine currently lacks some of the varietal typicity of the Cabernet Franc grape variety, as the oak-derived notes dominate over the fruit expression. Some subtle hints of local terroir are present but remain hidden deep into the background, overwhelmed by sweet spice and wood influences. The wine is still developing and shows hints of future elegance, making it enjoyable today, but best enjoyed in the next 2 to 3 years. This wine falls short of delivering profound depth, complexity, or that classic Cabernet Franc profile that many wine connoisseurs are looking for. All in all, this is a well-made wine that offers richness and vibrancy, yet a wine that lacks sophistication.

The wine’s prominent oak notes and crisp acidity call for pairings that can stand up to its flamboyance while complementing the wine’s spicy character. Consider pairing it with paprika-rubbed pork tenderloin or grilled lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and garlic; the spices will resonate with the wine’s aromatic profile, while the acidity would cut through the richness of the meat. Smoked duck breast would also be an excellent complementary match, echoing the toasted oak notes of the wine. Cheers!
CHATEAU CRISTI | Cabernet Franc | 2020
variety: cabernet franc
country: Moldova
region: Valul lui Traian
rating: 93.4

The label of this wine is encrypted with symbolism centered around the ‘Mystic Guardian of the Vineyard’. The label depicts: The Guardian’s Cloak, representing grape vines and symbolizing resilience, The Staff of Seasons, symbolizing the growing season and the mastery over time, The Sun and the Moon, the divine entities symbolizing warmth and wisdom, The Cup of Eternal Life, a golden cup holding the essence of terroir), The Spirits of Nature, represented by the dancing elements – rain, wind, earth, fire – symbolizing character, and The Roots of Time, symbolizing continuity and connection to the land. This intricate design transforms each bottle into a story, celebrating the winery’s heritage and winemaking philosophy.

© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation. Cheers!