Winemaker Notes
Professional Ratings
-
Vinous
Done in 100% stainless steel, the 2015 Cabernet Franc T23 is another plush-textured wine that defies categorization. It shows more of that herbaceous Franc character with resinous herbs and tomato leaf. Sweet berry fruit remains bright and fresh, with hints of orange peel and subtle tobacco notes. Tannins perk up on the finish, presenting like a hit of bitter black pepper.
-
Wine Enthusiast
Delicate whiffs of cherry blossom and white pepper perfume this fresh, fruity Cabernet Franc. On the palate, bright raspberry and cherry flavors are unadorned by oak or spice tones, lending a pristine forward sunniness. It's an uncomplicated but irresistibly tasty red.
Cabernet Franc, a proud parent of Cabernet Sauvignon, is the subtler and more delicate of the Cabernets. Today Cabernet Franc produces outstanding single varietal wines across the wine-producing world. Somm Secret—One of California's best-kept secrets is the Happy Canyon appellation of Santa Barbara. Here Cabernet Franc shines as a single varietal wine or in blends, expressing sumptuous fruit, savory aromas and polished tannins.
As the most historic wine-producing region in New York state, winemaking in the Finger Lakes area dates back to the 1820s and today as a region, accounts for 90% of the state’s total wine production.
Its narrow and deep lakes created by the movement of Ice Age glaciers create an environment similar to the classic Riesling-loving regions of Europe, namely Germany and Austria. The Finger Lakes retain summer heat that incidentally warms up cold winter air, making it fall down from the lakes’ steep slopes. When spring comes, the lakes, already cooled by cold winter weather, stave off vine budding until the danger of frost has subsided. The main lakes of the zone, that is those big enough to moderate the climate in this way, are the focal points of prime vineyard areas. They include Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca and Cayuga.
While Riesling has fueled most of the region’s success, today Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc enjoy some attention.