Modales, Fennville (Michigan) Cabernet Franc “La Esperanza” 2022

While Michigan is perhaps best known for Rieslings and other whites, their cool climate red wines deserve attention as well. The Fennville AVA is a small appellation in southwest Michigan. Here, new wineries like Modales are creating truly exceptional wines, exemplified by the excellent 2022 La Esperanza Cabernet Franc. Grown in clay-rich soils a mile from Lake Michigan, the Cabernet Franc grapes have found a superb microclimate. The 2022 Cabernet Franc offers a deliciously ripe and round style. The bouquet shows lovely pure fruit – black cherry, red cherry and raspberry fruits with hints of herbs, graphite and black pepper. The black cherry and raspberry fruit flavors are underscored by subtle herbs, oak and a silky texture. It is a delicious rendition of Cabernet Franc in what might be called a classic Fennville style.
91 Wayne Belding