Rating: 91

A good friend brought me this wine to share.  I told him about my endeavors with the site and so he offered up this Franciscan 2005 Magnificat. I must say that it is one of the best bold reds I have had in a good long time.

In terms of the goals of this site, this wine hits my target on two fronts – the Franciscan and the Magnificat.  The winery is not owned by the Franciscan’s but appears to be named in their honor.  The Franciscans were the first to plant wine vineyards in California, but it is not clear if that is the source of the name (if anyone knows the history of the winery’s name, please share).

The Magnificat, also called the Canticle of Mary refers to Luke 1:46-55 when Mary answers Elizabeth’s greeting (Luke 1: 41-45 which is about half of the Hail Mary). The prayer is recited daily by those who pray the Liturgy of the Hours during evening prayer (or Vespers). The prayer is called the Maginificat because the first words in Latin are "Magnificat anima mea Dominum..." I share my preferred version at the bottom of this article.  For now, on to the review.

The 2005 Magnificat is a red Meritage (which is a Beurdeax style blended wine) is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Merlot, 2% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot, and 1% Cabernet Franc.

This elixir was a real treat from beginning to end. The sense experience starts with a deep, opaque crimson red color. the wine clings gently to the glass with healthy legs as the liquid settles from a quick swirl.  The scent is incredible and complex.  It is full of fruit flavors, with blackberries and plums, a touch of leather. The smell is so delightful it is worth lingering and enjoying on its own before even tasting the first drop.

Magnificat is not one of those wines that promises a lot on the nose, but fails to deliver on the tongue.  No, this one delivers what you expect.  The wine is extremely well balanced.  We were a little surprised at the mild tannins for being 5 years old, but this and a mild tartness were the only marks against perfection. The taste was exceptional with the the bold and rich fruit flavors promised on the nose.  Blackberry was most called to mind, but there was a subtle note of spice that provided the perfect balance. The finish was also good, with a citric note.

The 2005 Magnificat sets you back about $40 or more, but is worth all of it and more (you can find it for a bit less if you shop online).  Since this one is outside of my typical price range, I am quite grateful for having had the chance to experience it.  I highly recommend this wine, particularly with prime rib, or similar rich food flavored food.

The Magnificat

My Soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour
for He has looked with favor on His lowly servant.

From this day all generations will call me blessed:
The Almighty has done great things for me,
and holy is His Name.

He has mercy on those who fear Him
in every generation

He has show the strength of His arm,
He has scattered the proud in their conceit.

He has cast down the mighty from their thrones,
and has lifted up the lowly.

He has filled the hungry with good things,
and the rich he has sent away empty.

He has come to the help of his servant Israel
for He has remembered His promise of mercy,
the promise He made to our fathers,
to Abraham and His children for ever.