Kabaj, Cabernet Franc, 2016

Cabernet Franc as a wine of place rather than fruit ripeness—mineral-driven and structured from one of Europe's most distinctive soils. Goriška Brda's "opoka" (calcareous-clay marl with sandstone) creates wines of exceptional minerality and freshness. Jean Michel Morel, Paris-born and trained across Perpignan, Bordeaux, and Friuli, married into the Kabaj family and shifted from grape sales to estate bottling. Certified organic with fermentation guided by lunar cycles. The 2016 shows deep red berry, earthy mushroom, and hints of green pepper—beautifully layered with minerality from limestone soils. Now entering its optimal window; decant 30-45 minutes before serving with game or aged cheeses.