Wautoma Springs 'Foodie' Cabernet Franc Solaksen Vineyard, Washington

Cassis, dark berries, green peppercorn, and black tea open with a savory, composed character framed by smooth tannins. 2022 Wautoma Springs 'Foodie' Cabernet Franc Solaksen Vineyard is a 100% Cabernet Franc from the elevated Solaksen Vineyard in Washington’s Royal Slope, aged in neutral oak to preserve the grape’s fruit, herbal detail, and natural structure. Produced in a small lot of just 322 cases, it reflects Jessica Munnell and Tom Merkle’s shared focus on expressive vineyard sourcing, thoughtful winemaking, and wines built naturally for the table.

Product Details:

• Owners: Jessica Munnell and Tom Merkle
• Winemaker: Jessica Munnell
• Grapes: 100% Cabernet Franc
• Farming: Sustainably farmed vineyard
• Vineyard Source: Solaksen Vineyard
• Cabernet Franc Clones: 214 and 327
• Soil: Adkins very fine sandy loam and Taunton fine sandy loam
• Elevation: Approximately 1,430 to 1,490 feet
• Aging: Neutral oak
• pH: 3.84
• ABV: 14.5%
• Case Production: 322 cases

Sensory Description:

Cassis and dark berry fruit lead the nose, followed by green peppercorn, black tea, and restrained herbal notes. The palate is medium-bodied and balanced, with ripe fruit carried by smooth tannins rather than heavy extraction. Savory spice and tea-like structure add definition through the mid-palate, while the neutral-oak élevage keeps the fruit and varietal character clear. The finish remains composed and food-friendly, with dark fruit, subtle herbs, and fine tannins lingering together.

Awards & Accolades:

• Silver: Sip Magazine 14th Annual Best of the Northwest Wine Awards, Cabernet Franc, 2025

Winemaker’s Background:

Wautoma Springs began with a partnership between winemaker Jessica Munnell and grape grower Tom Merkle. The two met through Washington’s wine industry, and in 2008 Jessica approached Tom about creating a wine that would showcase fruit from his vineyards. Munnell brought winemaking experience gained through work in Australia and at producers including Snoqualmie, Chateau Ste. Michelle Canoe Ridge, Mercer Wine Estates, and Vintage Wine Estates, while Merkle brought the perspective of a second-generation grower with extensive vineyard-management experience. Their winery remains deliberately boutique in scale, focusing on small lots and close relationships with the vineyards behind each wine. “Foodie” reflects that philosophy directly, with its name chosen to emphasize Cabernet Franc’s particular versatility at the table.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve at approximately 15-17°C in a medium-sized Bordeaux or universal red wine glass. Its medium body, savory herbal character, and smooth tannins make it unusually flexible with food. Pair with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, grilled lamb, mushroom dishes, lentils, charcuterie, aged cheeses, tomato-based dishes, or herb-driven vegetables. It can also accompany richer stews and roasted meats without overpowering more careful preparations.