Thirsty Owl Wine Company, Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah-Malbec 2013, Cayuga Lake, New York

Tasting Note: A cabernet, syrah, and malbec blend from the New York Finger Lakes shows something new and promising.

This purple-colored blend has a nose of black plum, blackberry, raspberry, raisin, violet, wet leaves and cedar; the aromas are almost wild, but in a fruit, rather than a gamey sense.

Aromas on the nose carry to the palate as flavors with mild ginger and clove baking spice chiming in on the finish. The wine is medium in acidity and tannin, medium-plus bodied, and offers a velvety mouth feel.

You’ve likely never tasted a cab, syrah, malbec blend from the New York Fingers Lakes. If you’re a malbec fan try this.

Could malbec have found a new home in the Finger Lakes? What do you think?

Bottle Note: Years ago a gentleman was stumbling home after a night offaster horses, younger women, and older wine. Suddenly, a 4-foot-6-inch owl landed in his path. The owl said, “I have a deal for you. If you share your fine wine with me, I won’t interfere with you faster horses or younger women. In fact, I am so thirsty, I will also protect your vineyards from birds and critters.” The gentleman agreed. To this day, the own can be seen proudly guarding the vineyards while savoring the best wines in New York.