Red Tail Ridge 2012 Blaufränkisch

By Sally Kral

When I first moved to the Finger Lakes, I wasn’t at all familiar with Blaufränkisch, also known as Lemberger, but as I’ve visited more and more wineries throughout the region it’s become clear to me that this grape, which is grown predominantly in Austria, is on the rise here in the Finger Lakes. Our cool climate is the perfect home for this bold red, and numerous wineries have taken note, including Damiani, Dr. Frank, Heron Hill, Fox Run and Red Tail Ridge.

Blaufränkisch is a perfect choice for lovers of medium-bodied reds with balanced berry and herbaceous notes. I am one such lover! I tried Red Tail Ridge’s 2012 Martini Family Vineyard Blaufränkisch from their Obscure Red Varietal Series to warm me up on a snowy, bitterly cold evening this past weekend. With red berry aromas and a hint of pepper, the first sip of this wine is dominated by berry flavors that give way to herbaceous earthiness and peppery spice. The finish is dry and slightly smoky.

Like other cool climate reds, Blaufränkisch has great acid balance that makes it very food-friendly—I’d recommend it with an herb-crusted pork tenderloin, or how about this Shredded Pork Shoulder with Star Anise and Cinnamon?

Only 398 cases were produced of this great red, so get your hands on a bottle before it’s too late!

Sally Kral is the print and digital managing editor of Edible Finger Lakes as well as a freelance writer focused on national wine, beer and spirits trends.