2011 Mai et Kenji Hodgson ‘O Galarneau’ Vin Rouge, Anjou, Loire Valley, France
Mai and Kenji Hodgson might not entirely look the part of natural winemakers in France — one is from British Columbia and the other is from Japan — but this clear tasting, unfussy Cabernet Franc fits the mold. Roasted red pepper jam and dark plum… Read more
2010 Sebastien Bobinet ‘Greta Carbo,’ Saumur-Champigny, Loire Valley, France
Bobinet’s name graces some of the most delicious, drinkable wines from the Saumur region, and so it’s no surprise that his are a staple at some of Paris’ hottest restaurants. Food friendly and yet hardly vapid or light, this Cabernet Franc from… Read more
2010 Marc Plouzeau (Château de la Bonnelière) ‘Les Cornuelles’ Chinon, Loire Valley, France
Chinon may be off the radar for many wine drinkers more accustomed to the “big guns” of Burgundy and Bordeaux, but it’s decidedly home to some of the more in-vogue reds, including Rene Mosse’s interesting cuvees. Compared to Mosse, Plouzeau’s… Read more
2009 Roanoke Vineyards ‘Gabby’s’ Cabernet Franc, North Fork of Long Island
Crafted from grapes grown in just 12 rows of vines on the Roanoke estate, overseen by family patriarch Gabby Pisacano, this limited-release Cab Franc is rich and fruitful. Cherry and currant flavors dominate the palate, with nary a hint of bell… Read more
2010 Roanoke Vineyards Cabernet Franc, North Fork of Long Island
The 2010 growing season was the warmest to date on Long Island. The vineyard was impeccably clean and disease-free. The planets were aligned for the crafting of an outstanding wine. Would the Cabernet Franc deliver? Yes… and then some. From its… Read more
2008 Macari Vineyards Cabernet Franc, North Fork of Long Island
Firm tannins have served this floral wine well, as they’re just beginning to subside and allow the cherry fruit to shine through. Mild earth and eucalyptus notes add to the complexity, and the finish is now quite smooth. Duck or Asian fare… Read more
2009 La Source du Ruault Saumur Champigny, Loire Valley, France
100 percent biodynamic Cabernet Franc offers up peppery, briary Japanese green plums under a blanket of damp mushrooms and roasting red peppers. In the mouth, furry tannins should mellow with time, as should slightly apparent alcohol. MSRP:… Read more
2010 Brys Estate Cabernet Franc Reserve, Michigan
When it comes to Michigan red wines on the Upper Peninsula, there’s an unmistakable terroir in the nose — something a bit gamey and unusual for New World wines. Perhaps there is still an element of rusticism that has not been entirely carved out… Read more
2008 Diamond Ridge Vineyards Cabernet Franc, Lake County
You don’t see a lot of varietal Cabernet Franc bottlings — probably because it is more profitable to plant Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon in the same areas. Translucent ruby color. This one is on the lighter side, offering up aromas of menthol… Read more
2001 Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Cabernet Franc, Napa
A wine of great style, showing clove, cherry, tobacco and ripe black fruits. Everything is in harmony here. MSRP: $17.99 (May 2005) Wine Lines rating: 90 Group:… Read more
