In 1926, the Kautz family began farming in the Lodi region and in 1948, John Kautz Farms was founded. In 1990, after many successful years of growing wine grapes, the family completed the Ironstone Winery. The Ironstone Winery is a modern replica of an 1859 Gold Stamp Mill complete with tasting room, gourmet delicatessen, wine aging cavern, conference and wedding facilities, outdoor Amphitheatre, and 14.5 acres of landscaped gardens. The Heritage Museum and Jewelry Shoppe contains artifacts from the gold rush era, as well as the largest specimen of Crystalline Gold Leaf – a 44 lb. treasure. The family philosophy of winemaking is that quality wine grapes, a touch of artistry and patience create captivating, elegant wines.
This 2020 Reserve Cabernet Franc is an elegant, rich, yet soft wine. With fleshy black cherry, blackberry, and spicy oak aromas. This wine can be enjoyed now or cellared for a special occasion. On the palate, there are succulent, dark fruit flavors of plum, black cherry, and a hint of sweet oak. It offers a smooth, medium finish. It is also vegan-friendly.
Blend: 85% Cabernet Franc, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon
91 Wine & Spirits Dusty and mineral, with scents of licorice root, blackberry, horehound, violets and olive skin, this is concentrated and deeply flavored. It feels ample middle, then precise and firm on the finish, with fine tannins.
90 Wine Enthusiast Enjoy aromas and flavors of red cherry, red plum, wild strawberry, boysenberry, tarragon and basil, toasted wood, chocolate and subtle hints of leather, black pepper and crushed violets. Course, chalky tannins coat the mouth, but are well-met by the concentrated fruit structure; an elevated acidity provides the needed freshness.
