I mentioned earlier this week that I've been impressed by some 2005 Finger Lakes cabernet francs. Well, this is the one that I liked best in that recent blind tasting.
From the moment I pulled the cork, I knew this wine was going to be interesting. Once in my glass, complex aromas of camp fire, black pepper bacon, sweet vanilla, cocoa powder and intense black fruit fill the room. When I re-tasted this wine the next day, the smokiness had stepped back a bit, with fruit coming to the forefront and subtle herbal qualities emerging.
Smoke and spice lead on a palate that is medium-to-full weight, but rich, mouth-filling black raspberry and blackberry flavors follow closely. The finish is very long, lingering with distinct notes of basil and thyme.
By the second day, the basil and thyme notes had woven their way throughout the wine, with more black pepper spice showing as well.
This is definitely more a Bordeaux-style cab franc, as opposed to Loire. It's also one of the best Finger Lakes reds I've had.
Producer: Fox Run Vineyards
Grapes: 77% cabernet franc, 15% merlot, 8% cabernet sauvignon
AVA: Finger Lakes
ABV: 12%
Price: $40
Rating: 
(3.5 out of 5 | Very good-to-Delicious).
(Ratings Guide)