2021 Praefectus

85% Cabernet Franc,  15% Cabernet Sauvignon  

Philosophy
Old Mission Peninsula rides the climactic edge of where successful vinifera ripening can occur, and our Praefectus is the result of strategic blending methods undertaken to create a full bodied red here. A title of authority in the ancient Roman Empire, Praefectus is a true leader among Michigan red wines, showcasing the best of our Cabernet grapes.

Flavor Notes
A Michigan take on a Bordeaux style, this blend evens out characteristically cool climate acid, fruit flavor, and deeper oak notes. Through careful
vineyard work and canopy management we let our Cabernet Franc express juicy raspberry flavor rather than the grape’s often characteristic herbaceousness. Incorporating Cabernet Sauvignon from our Nella Serra hoop houses adds complexity with big ripe fruit and mouth-coating tannins.

Vinification
The Cabernet Franc was harvested October 27th, 2021, mostly whole berry, and transferred to red wine fermenters with daily pumpovers. It was then pressed into three-four year old demi muids and barriques on November 23rd for aging. The Cabernet Sauvignon was harvested on November 2nd, 2021, fermenting in an open top bin with daily punch downs. It was pressed December 1st into two year old barriques for
aging. The wine was blended on August 3rd, 2022 after eight months of aging and bottled shortly after on September 22nd.

Pairings
Praefectus is a great choice for grilled fatty steaks or roasted lamb. For dessert, try pairing with bitter dark chocolates to highlight the red fruit in the wine.

Cellaring
While this vintage tastes great upon release to our wine club, (October 2022) it will continue to improve with age through 2033 and, potentially, beyond.