Wagner Vineyards, Cabernet Franc 2012, Finger Lakes, New York

Tasting Note: The nose of this deep-ruby-bordering-on-purple colored cab franc is filled with black fruit including blackberry and black cherry and also aromas of freshly-tilled garden earth.

On the attack the wine is initially one-dimensional but reveals another layer of flavor mid-palate with chalky, medium-plus acidity registering through to the back of your mouth.

Fruit flavors are stronger on the nose than on the palate.

The constitution of the acidity in the wine is notable for its chalkiness which at times overwhelms the fruit. Wagner is a major producer in the New York Finger Lakes area and sampling their wine will give you a good sense of cab franc from a major producer in the area.

Having visited the winery, you get the sense they have a breadth of offerings of which cab franc is one of many.

Bottle Note: Aging for 12 months in 60-gallon oak barrels contributes subtle vanilla & spice to the bright fruit character. Flavors & aromas of blueberry& ripe blackberry complement the weighty finish. Enjoy with pasta & cheese dishes, pizza and grilled meats.