Well-priced, fresh and food friendly, Silver Thread Vineyard 2012 Blackbird ($22) is a blend of 68% cabernet franc, 21% merlot, 11% cabernet sauvignon — and you can smell taste all that cab franc.
Black cherry and red raspberry aromas are accented by savory notes of grilled herbs and mushroom.
The medium-bodied palate features similar character with a earthy umami edge and a finish that begs another bite of food. We enjoyed it with smoky grilled pork chops recently.
Producer: Silver Thread Vineyard
AVA: Finger Lakes
Barrel Program: 8 months in American oak
Production: 340 cases
Price: $22
