While the Finger Lakes are best known for Rieslings and other whites, their cool climate red wines deserve attention as well. Nathan Kendall of the Finger Lakes offers fine red and white wines under his Nathan K. label. Grown in silty-loam soils on the west side of Seneca Lake, his Cabernet Franc grapes have found a fine microclimate for wine production. The 2020 Cabernet Franc offers a deliciously ripe and round style. The bouquet shows black cherry, red cherry and raspberry fruits with hints of green herbs, cedar and black pepper. The red cherry and raspberry fruit flavors are underscored by a cocoa-like richness as well as savory herbal tones, subtle oak and a silky texture. It is a delicious rendition of Cabernet Franc in a Finger Lakes style.
Nathan K., Finger Lakes (New York) Cabernet Franc 2020
By Wayne Belding