Atwater Estate Vineyards, Cabernet Franc 2013, North Block Six, Finger Lakes, New York

Tasting Note: This a perfect cab franc to sit around the fire with during the holidays when the weather outside makes you crave red wine, but you’re in the mood for something on the lighter side but not simple and well, a little festive.

Black cherry, plum, and raspberry coated with chocolate are what you get on the nose of this deep ruby-colored cab franc.

Aromas continue as flavors on the palate along with nutmeg and vanilla.

The fruit profile is a mix 2/3 black fruit and 1/3 red fruit and the fruit always stays in the lead of the taste. Atwater’s cab franc has a long finish that pleasantly intensifies the sweet baking spice characteristics at the end.

This cab franc has depth of flavor and shows medium complexity, acidity and body. Who knew cab franc could be so festive?

Bottle Note: North Block Six is a three acre block of Cabernet Franc situated on a steep, west-facing slope in the heart of our farm. This signature red variety flaunts rich, earthy tannins fused with red fruit, cherry and herbs. Savor this vintage with roast chicken and aromatic cheeses. Our eighty-acre farm winery is located on Seneca Lake’s south-eastern slope in the beautiful Finger Lakes. Committed to protecting the land lake using sustainable business practices, we are passionate about creating wines expressive of our vineyard site.