1️⃣ Kern & Co 2018 (Wismer-Foxcroft, Niagara) — 94 pts
A masterclass in balance & texture. Only 43 cases made. Pure Black Forest cake, silky tannin, perfect curve.
2️⃣ Bottega Wine Studio “Franc” 2023 (Similkameen) — 94 pts
Two barrels only. Precision, depth, and cellar-worthy power. Future collector legend.
3️⃣ Bella Terra 2017 (Four Mile Creek) — 93 pts
At its peak right now. Soft, layered, textural — the definition of Niagara maturity.
4️⃣ Corcelettes 2022 (Similkameen) — 93 pts
Dusty mountain tannins, red currant, and wild sage. Authentic Similkameen character.
5️⃣ Phantom Creek 2021 “Kobo Vineyard” (Okanagan Falls) — 93 pts
Muscular, polished, and complex. A collector’s BC benchmark.
6️⃣ Ménide 2023 (Grimsby Hillside, Niagara) — 93 pts
Natural ferment, deep color, easy ten-year aging curve. Tiny production, huge potential.
7️⃣ Hester Creek 2022 Old Vines (Osoyoos) — 92 pts
Silky, ripe and elegant — proof that maturity and precision can coexist in the South Okanagan.
8️⃣ Watchful Eye 2022 (Lincoln Lakeshore) — 92+ pts
Structure, focus, and balance — a new Niagara producer to watch.
9️⃣ Cave Spring 2022 CSV (Niagara Bench) — 92 pts
Elegant and fine-boned with a Bordeaux edge. Proof that Cab Franc can be graceful.
🔟 Vineland 2020 — 92 pts
The value champ: $15.95 tax-in for a true Cab Franc experience. Winemaker Brian Schmidt’s passion in a bottle.
