Cork’d Interviews Emily Richer of Virage Wines about Cabernet Franc
July 23rd, 2010
Emily Richer grew up studying and pursuing a career in finance. She went on to earn her CPA, a true numbers girl by nature. Along the way though, the wine bug flew up and bit her on the backside. After working alongside world-renowned wine writer Karen McNeil, Richer spent a stint with biodynamic Bordeaux-style producer, Quintessa. While working in the valley, Richer developed a specific interest in Cabernet Franc and the “right-bank” styled Bordeaux blends it is capable of producing.
She wasn’t satisfied working on someone else’s project, and when the opportunity arose, she purchased what used to be Havens Vineyards. She is now introducing her own brand, Virage Wines, from Cab Franc and Merlot grapes planted in this vineyard.
Duration : 0:5:19
Owner & winemaker Ross Hackworth talks about growing Cabernet Franc grapes “in some of the best conditions in the world” in Naramata, BC. Video interview by Mike Klassen, BCWineLover.com recorded August 2009.
When yeast eats the sugar in the wine, it gives off two byproducts – alcohol and carbon dioxide. Here you can see just how much carbon dioxide has built up inside the primary fermenting bucket, even with the airlock on that lets it escape as it ferments.
Winemakers discuss what makes their Cab Francs unique during the Michigan Cabernet Franc Challenge
Med. density garnet colour. Med. intensity nose of cranberry, green pepper, and graphite.
The bottles are coming off the labeller and being checked by Paula and Pat for any problems. Behind the filler you can vaguely see our Assistant Winemaker Korol waving (she runs the line). Dumping glass is Darren, stacking with the use of a Vac-U-Hoist is Regan and finally, wrapping the pallets and forklifting is JC. All are wearing lovely and stylish hair nets!