Hope Family Wines debuts new Paso Robles cabernet franc
– Hope Family Wines has released the 2023 vintage of Quest, marking its transition to a wine made entirely from Paso Robles-grown cabernet franc. Known for its cabernet sauvignon under labels such as Austin Hope, Treana, Austin and Liberty School, the winery is now highlighting what it calls the “other” cabernet.
Winemaker Austin Hope says he spent a decade exploring the potential of cabernet franc in Paso Robles before creating Quest, which initially blended cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc. Beginning with the 2023 vintage, the wine is now made exclusively from cabernet franc.
“We learned that this grape thrives in only a few select microclimates in Paso Robles, which makes cabernet franc a ‘goldilocks’ of wine varieties—soils, elevations and temperatures must be just right, neither too hot nor too cold,” Hope said. “Quest is the culmination of this discovery, made from special sites that show what is possible from Paso Robles cabernet franc.”
Quest is distributed nationwide. The 2023 vintage features aromas of anise seed, warm chocolate and fresh mint, along with flavors of black fruit and dark chocolate. The finish includes fine tannins and a touch of acidity.
Hope Family Wines has positioned cabernet franc as a key differentiator within its portfolio. The winery has found that the variety serves as a conversation starter with trade partners and consumers.
“As avid champions of Paso Robles, we are constantly talking to people about the region,” Hope said. “It’s clear they’re excited about what’s happening here and interested in discovering new expressions.”
The 2023 Quest reflects how Hope and Director of Vineyards Stasi Seay invested in new vineyards that align with their vision for Paso Robles cabernet franc. The vineyards feature well-drained gravelly soils and higher elevations with large temperature swings.
“Cabernet franc needs that big daily cooling-off period paired with ample refractive sunlight, plus good drainage to keep the herbaceous notes in check,” Seay said.
Seay noted that cabernet franc plantings have been limited in Paso Robles. “When we find a spot where conditions are perfect, we’ll make a commitment and then work with the grower to graft over to cabernet franc or even plant new blocks,” Seay said. “This guarantees access to high-quality cabernet franc on a long-term basis to keep pace with the growing demand for Quest.”
The largest source for the 2023 Quest cabernet franc is in the Creston District, with loamy calcareous soils at an elevation of 1,100 feet. Additional sources include the Geneseo District, with sandy-loam calcareous-rich soils at 1,100 feet, and the San Juan Creek District, with alluvial loamy soils at 1,200 feet. Future vintages will also incorporate fruit from the Highlands District and Adelaida District.
Hope Family Wines has been a part of Paso Robles’ wine industry for multiple generations. Austin Hope, the son of winegrowers Chuck and Marlyn Hope, continues the family’s commitment to the region. The winery operates six brands, including Austin Hope, Treana, Quest, Austin, Liberty School and Troublemaker. In 2022, Hope Family Wines was named “American Winery of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast’s annual Wine Star Awards.
