This Franc had 40% new French and American oak barrels used in its aging, and the one thing I would tell you is that is has lots of big fruit to it on both the nose and palate; it also has hefty tannins, so ageing over the next 5+ years won’t be a problem. The nose is full of raspberry and tobacco notes while the palate has big spice, big tannins and big tobacco – to go along with its big fruit … this is no soft, easy drinking Franc, this is one to cellar and enjoy later. Expected release: fall 2012. Price: $38.00 – Rating: ****+