I tried this wine as a sneak preview at the recent Chateau des Charmes new label launch. Before we get to the wine let’s discuss this label for a minute. Chateau des Charmes have launched a new updated label that more than just an update, it’s a leap forward – usually when one “updates” one’s image they create a new label design, a new look; the Chateau not only updated their image, they took labels into the technological age: they’ve put a box-like item on the back that talks to your cell phone. “Talk” of course is a subjective term, what actually happens is you take a picture of the box and your phone can retrieve information about the wine and much more. Pretty sophisticated stuff for a winery whose previous label was gold block letters on a solid coloured background. As for this ’07 Cabernet Franc, under the new label, it delivers outstanding value and shows how Cabernet Franc flourishes in Ontario. The nose has aromas of cherry-tobacco and blackberry, while the palate is complex: smoky, tobacco, blueberries, black raspberries, smooth with a long smoky-vanilla finish. Buy half a dozen, this should evolve well over the next decade, and is a bargain at under $15. Price: $13.95 – Rating: ****½