My love of cabernet franc isn’t a
surprise if you read this blog with any sort of regularity. They are among my favorite wines, are extremely versatile and the grape does quite well here on Long Island.
But who can afford to spend the $25-$40
for the best local bottles? I know that I can’t, so I was excited
to learn about Lieb Family Cellars’ Bridge Lane Cabernet Franc
($15). It’s a non-vintage blend that aims to be an every day,
Chinon-style franc. And you know what, it’s pretty good.
Smoky red cherry aromas with a little peppery spice
and some tomato leaf—which I like—make up a reasonably aromatic nose. Similar flavors
carry through to the palate, with the leafy notes replaced by more herbal, thyme-basil
notes. It has low tannins and just a little acidic structure.
This isn’t a wine that is going to knock you over the head,
but it’s a nice everyday wine that should be versatile at the table
too.