My love of cabernet franc isn’t a surprise if you read this blog with any sort of regularity. They are among my favorite wines, are extremely versatile and the grape does quite well here on Long Island.
But who can afford to spend the $25-$40 for the best local bottles? I know that I can’t, so I was excited to learn about Lieb Family Cellars’ Bridge Lane Cabernet Franc ($15). It’s a non-vintage blend that aims to be an every day, Chinon-style franc. And you know what, it's pretty good.
Smoky red cherry aromas with a little peppery spice and some tomato leaf—which I like—make up a reasonably aromatic nose. Similar flavors carry through to the palate, with the leafy notes replaced by more herbal, thyme-basil notes. It has low tannins and just a little acidic structure.
This isn’t a wine that is going to knock you over the head, but it’s a nice everyday wine that should be versatile at the table too.
Hello Lenn,
I was just talking with friends about the prices of some of our local reds. Although winery owners would not want to hear it, there are so many quality reds out there from all over the globe that the one thing our beloved state is missing is that under $13 red wine. And not a funky, festive sweet blend, but a nice dry everyday table wine.
Needless to say, like Lieb Family Cellars, there are several local producers putting out reasonably priced decent reds under $15. Hopefully it catches on sooner than later. It is too bad I never see any LI wines on the store shelves here. We do get a healthy dose of FL offerings however, (mostly off-dry white wines) at very good prices.
BTW .. The little one is looking great – have a nice week!
Dezel
Posted by: Dezel | August 05, 2007 at 06:52 PM