The 2021 Vérité La Désir is a truly exceptional Californian red blend, with the 2021 vintage being lauded as superb for the region, characterized by an easy growing season despite some wildfires. This prestigious wine is predominantly Cabernet Franc (87%), complemented by 10% Merlot and 3% Malbec, notably featuring the highest percentage of Cabernet Franc ever incorporated into this blend. It presents an opaque ruby colour with a violet rim, exuding exuberant aromatics of violet blossom, fresh cut greenery, dried black tea, crushed walnut shell, and bright red and black fruits. French oak ageing contributes subtle notes of ground clove and cinnamon bark. On the palate, it's full-bodied with a firm texture, balanced by prominent fruit flavours, spicy oak elements, a long, savoury finish, and petrichor minerality. Expect wild, coiled blackberries, cassis, juniper, minty and peppery spice, and dark earth notes, all underpinned by a noble structure. 【James Suckling awarded this wine a perfect 100 points, hailing it as "perhaps the finest Cabernet Franc wine made in California."】 It is also described as "epically long lived in the cellar." 🍴 Food pairing suggestions: This wine is a memorable choice for rich dishes such as herb-crusted rack of lamb, wild mushroom risotto, or Beef Wellington. It also pairs beautifully with aged Gouda or Manchego cheeses. 🥂 Event suggestions: The 2021 Vérité La Désir is an ideal wine for special occasions and significant celebrations. While approachable now with several hours of decanting, it is structured to benefit from decades of ageing, promising to reach a level of perfection around 2030.