By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief
Merlot very well may be the signature red variety of Long Island, but if someone were to ask me to pick a single red grape that is successful in all of New York's major wine regions, it has to be cabernet franc.
From Long Island to the Hudson Valley to the Finger Lakes to Niagara and Western New York, there are well-made francs to be had.
Standing Stone Vineyards, on the eastern short of Seneca Lake, produced this Standing Stone Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Franc ($20) with grapes from the original Gold Seal Vineyard (read more).
Raspberries and cranberries lead the nose, with grilled mushrooms, a little leather a little vanilla and a sprinkling of spring herbs.
The medium-bodied palate shows fresh acidity and light tannins. Fruity and a little juicy, this franc starts off primarily with cranberry flavors before some of those earthy notes join the party on the mid-palate. A subtle herbal edge runs throughout and the medium finish displays just a little vanilla and oak.
Producer: Standing Stone Vineyards
AVA: Finger Lakes
Brix at harvest: 22.7 brix
pH: 3.31
TA: 6.8 g/l
ABV: 11.5%
Price: $20*
Rating: 
(3 out of 5 | Recommended)