Finger Lakes Wine of the Week:
Hosmer Winery 2013 Cabernet Franc
By Nicholas Baldwin
Cabernet Franc has found a nice home right here in the Finger Lakes. Its counterparts in France and California tend to be plump, earthy, and usually blended with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. The Finger Lakes’ cool climate reds are typically lighter in body, but still possess all the same great flavors. After nine months of aging in American and French oak barrels, and undergoing malolactic fermentation, the 2013 Hosmer Winery Cabernet Franc is showing as one of the region’s best right now.
Finding a balance with this red was key during the winemaking process. It has medium tannins, medium acidity and a silky mouthfeel. On the nose it shows off fantastic notes of red cherries, plum, eucalyptus and a subtle cedar note. It goes down easy and has a long finish, which is good because it doesn’t take long to empty the bottle!
This is a great summertime red for hot days. It has 12.5-percent alcohol-by-volume and doesn’t leave you parched. It would be a nice pairing with grilled barbeque chicken pizza, grilled vegetables, young New York State cheddar cheese and pork dishes. It will also pair with your classic cheeseburger. Only 371 cases were produced, so make sure to pick up a bottle from your local wine boutique.
Nicholas Baldwin has worked in the wine and spirits business for more than 12 years and traveled the world visiting vineyards. He holds numerous wine certifications.
For more of Nicholas Baldwin’s wine tasting notes, click here.
