Dracaena
Dracaena produces Cabernet Franc from Paso Robles, the Central Coast appellation known for its warm days, cool nights, and mineral-rich soils. The varietal thrives in these conditions, developing the structure and dark fruit character the region is recognized for. The winery's portfolio centers on this single grape: a core Cabernet Franc and the Plummer Vineyard Reserve, a more concentrated expression. Both have been assessed by Decanter and Wine Enthusiast, with the Reserve reaching 91.3 points and the standard bottling 90.7. Paso Robles has emerged as a serious source for Cabernet Franc in recent years, offering an alternative to the Cabernet Sauvignon-dominated narrative of California's premium regions. Dracaena's focused approach—depth over breadth—reflects the appellation's potential for this varietal.
Critics
Decanter, Wine Enthusiast