Jarvis 2018 Cave Fermented Cabernet Franc Napa Valley

Jarvis 2018 Cave Fermented Cabernet Franc Napa Valley is a distinctive, cellar-worthy expression of Cabernet Franc that leans into richness, structure, and precision. Unlike lighter Loire styles, this is a full-bodied Napa interpretation—layered with dark fruit, spice, and polished oak—yet elevated by Jarvis’s signature cave-fermented finesse. It’s a sophisticated, quietly powerful wine that rewards both patience and attention.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Jarvis Estate is one of Napa Valley’s most unique producers, operating from an extensive underground cave system carved into the Vaca Mountains. This subterranean winery allows for gravity-flow winemaking and natural temperature stability, enabling gentle handling and precise fermentation conditions.

The 2018 Cabernet Franc is sourced from estate vineyards in Napa Valley and is cave fermented, a hallmark of Jarvis winemaking. This method:

• Provides consistent, cool fermentation temperatures

• Enhances aromatic precision and integration

• Minimizes oxidation and mechanical intervention

Key production details:

• Grape: 100% Cabernet Franc

• Region: Napa Valley, California

• Alcohol: ~14.5% ABV

• Aging: French oak barrels (significant new oak influence typical of Jarvis style)

The 2018 vintage in Napa Valley was widely regarded as balanced and high quality, producing wines with excellent structure, ripe fruit, and aging potential—well suited to Cabernet Franc’s expressive nature.

Jarvis wines are known for their polished, structured style, often combining Napa ripeness with a more classical, almost Bordeaux-like sensibility.

Critics Reviews

• Tastings.com (Beverage Testing Institute) – 93 Points (Gold Medal)
  Describes the wine as “a ripe and impressive Cabernet Franc… with balance and layered complexity,” highlighting notes of raspberry, cherry, vanilla cream, and sweet pipe tobacco.

• Wine Enthusiast – 89 Points
  Jim Gordon notes “a hefty dose of oak spice… vanilla, toast, nutmeg and cloves” alongside red and black cherry fruit, finishing with a spicy, slightly sweet character.

These reviews reflect a wine that emphasizes oak integration, richness, and structure, while maintaining varietal character and balance.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Complex and expressive with black cherry, raspberry, violet, and plum, layered with vanilla, baking spice, cedar, and subtle herbal notes.

Palate:
Full-bodied and polished with dark berry fruit, mulberry, and cassis, supported by oak-driven notes of toast, nutmeg, and vanilla cream, alongside hints of tobacco and candied herbs.

Finish:
Long and structured with fine tannins, spice, and lingering dark fruit, finishing with a touch of warmth and sweet oak.

Quick Overview

Recommended Service

• Decant: 1–2 hours

• Serve: 60–65°F

• Pairing: Lamb, duck, braised short ribs, or mushroom-based dishes