Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery, Leelanau Peninsula (Michigan) 2017

 Northern Michigan’s vineyards offer more than white wine grapes.  From proper vineyard sites and grape varieties, good reds can be made as well.  The limited production S.P.G. red from Forty-Five North is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, two grapes that can ripen at this northern location.  While best known for Rieslings and other whites, 45 North’s cool climate red wines deserve attention as well.  This Cabernet Franc/Merlot (68%/32%)shows characteristics of both varieties.  The bouquet shows black cherry, red cherry and blackcurrant fruits with hints of green herbs, graphite, smoke and black pepper.  The layers of cherry and blackcurrant fruit flavors are underscored by elements of coriander, savory herbs and black pepper.  The herbal style of the Cabernet Franc is embellished by the silky smoothness of the Merlot.