Posts Written OnMarch 14, 2008

WTN: Shinn Estate Vineyards 2005 Cabernet Franc (North Fork of Long Island)

I like several of the others, but my favorite of Shinn Estate Vineyards’ current red releases is their 2005 Cabernet Franc ($39). Extremely aromatic, the nose is a mélange of raspberry, cherry, earth, herbs and Moroccan spice market aromas. Gentle tannins provide just the right structure for a wine that deftly balances fruit flavor with nice earthiness and spice. Raspberries, sage, grilled mushrooms and savory spice mingle on the palate showing both intensity and nuance. This is the sort of wine, despite the price, that proves cabernet franc just might be Long Island’s best red variety. Simply delicious, and with…

Continue Reading

“Harvest Memory” by Christopher Watkins

The first group places stacks of plastic tubs at every row’s end for the next group that’s approaching; they’ll be grabbed up on the turn. Remaining in the rows are the full tubs loaded down with weighty clusters, for collection by the third group in the rear. Most everyone is Guatemalan, and gloved, clippers in their hands or in their pockets. Low to the ground and broad of back, the Guatemalan bodies suit their tasks. The air crackles with the sound of water droplets on a burner set to high; the clippers clipping briskly in the crispy morning air. There…

Continue Reading