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2017 Element Cabernet Franc “Equilibrium Wine Farm”

$75.00 / 750ml

25 Cases Produced

Dense in concentration, with ripe black fruits and just a hint of herbaceousness to remind us—this is Cabernet Franc! The wine is structured, with noticeable tannins and a ripeness of fruit that delivers an intense impact, while the acidity keeps it focused. This wine has a mouth-filling weight and is beautifully textured. While impressive now, it will only improve with time.

This is one of the first wines we produced from our farm after taking over the farming in 2017. While the effects of our farming practices are just beginning to show, the influence of this site is evident in the wine’s weight, body, and structure.

Christopher’s Notes: This wine represents the first round of our single-vineyard expressions from across the Finger Lakes. It hails from Equilibrium Wine Farm, located just east of the deepest part of Seneca Lake, north of Lodi. With its 25-year-old vines rooted deep in gravel and clay loam, this site naturally produces low yields and wines with intense concentration and structure. These are voluminous wines and, we believe, a perfect example of what can be achieved in the Finger Lakes with respect for our climate and farming.

Cabernet Franc

A grape most traditionally associated with the Loire Valley (Chinon, etc.), Cabernet Franc has received only moderate attention outside of France. While there are some notable examples of great Cabernet Franc being produced around the globe, they remain limited. It seems as though the Finger Lakes may be emerging as a stronghold for Cab Franc in the new world.

A bit lighter than its much more popular offspring, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc excels without the ripeness that Cabernet Sauvignon so often seems to need. With its thick skins and loose clusters that promote airflow, this grape seems perfectly suited to our cooler, moist climate. To seal the deal, it is also highly cold-tolerant.

We believe Cabernet Franc will soon become the iconic red grape of the Finger Lakes.