Kings Carey Clos Mullet Vineyard Santa Barbara Cabernet Franc 2020 Rated 94WE EDITORS CHOICE

Wine Enthusiast Review
Rated 94
EDITORS CHOICE
This is a very fresh style of Cabernet Franc, loaded with black raspberry as well as damp herbs and spicy peppercorns on the nose. There's lively acidity and a very tactile grip to the sip, where elderberry flavors are coated in zesty black pepper, making for a wine that's fun, delicious and classic.

Kings Carey Clos Mullet Vineyard Santa Barbara Cabernet Franc 2020

A lifted, aromatic, cool-climate Cabernet Franc from Kings Carey, sourced from the boutique Clos Mullet Vineyard and crafted with a minimalist, site-transparent approach.
The 2020 vintage shows purity, freshness, and savory nuance—an expressive Santa Barbara interpretation that leans more Loire-inspired than Napa-styled, with finesse over power.

Key Details

• Producer: Kings Carey (James Sparks)
• Vineyard: Clos Mullet Vineyard
• Region: Santa Barbara County, California
• Varietal: Cabernet Franc
• Style: Fresh, aromatic, cool-climate Franc
• ABV: 13%

Tasting Notes

• Red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry
• Violet, dried herbs, and subtle green peppercorn
• Graphite, crushed rock, and savory spice
• Silky tannins with bright, lifted acidity

Profile & Craft

• Cool-climate Santa Barbara fruit emphasizing aromatics and precision
• Native-yeast fermentation with gentle extraction
• Neutral oak aging to preserve purity and vineyard character
• Small-production bottling with artisanal, hands-off winemaking

Serving & Pairing

• Serve at 58-62°F
• Pairs with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, mushroom dishes, and soft cheeses
• Ideal for fans of Loire-leaning, elegant Cabernet Franc
• Drink now through 2030