This post has been sponsored by Cab Franc Forward and Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard and Winery. All opinions expressed are my own. The following message is intended for those 21+.
Riesling is almost always the first thing that comes to mind whenever we think of the Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area. And this isn't without reason - as the region does produce impressive Riesling. But that hasn't stopped the region's red wines from becoming arguably the most exciting wine story on the East Coast, and Cabernet Franc is at the heart of it. The Hermann J. Wiemer 2022 Cabernet Franc is a perfect example of why East Coast red wine is earning its name: bright, savory, and built for the dinner table, it encompasses all of the best qualities of excellently crafted cool-weather Cabernet Franc.
In this review, we're going to explain what makes this cool-weather Cabernet Franc so food-friendly, as well as discuss tasting notes and aromatic notes, and then share our favorite pairings for this particular bottle - including our own Baked Camembert Galette, which is tailor-made for the Thanksgiving table.
Now, without further delay, let's take a look at the first entry of our Francsgiving wine lineup.
Why Cabernet Franc Thrives in Seneca Lake, New York
It comes down to ripening. Cabernet Franc ripens early, especially when compared to its offspring varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, and handles cold winters quite well. That makes it a natural fit for upstate New York, where the growing season is markedly cooler and shorter than in places like California or Bordeaux.
Seneca Lake, however, gives Cabernet Franc an additional advantage. As the deepest of the Finger Lakes, Seneca Lake retains summer warmth well into fall, thereby helping to protect nearby vineyards from early frosts. That long, gentle autumn allows the grapes to hang on the vine longer, during which time they build flavor while keeping the fresh acidity that defines Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc. In terms of style, the result has more in common with the Cabernet Francs of France's Loire Valley than with big, ripe New World reds.
Hermann J. Wiemer's Winemaking Philosophy
Founded near Dundee on Seneca Lake's westernmost shore, Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard built its premier reputation on world-class Riesling. Today, the vineyard is certified biodynamic and takes an approach to winemaking that is centered around allowing the vines to speak for themselves through the exceptional expressions of their grapes.
For this Cabernet Franc, the team planted the grape on its ripest soil, with the vines being spaced and angled for maximum sun exposure. In 2022, the fruit was picked and sorted by hand in two passes, once on October 11 and again on October 21, and then fermented with native yeasts. Roughly 30% of the grapes went into the ferment as whole clusters. The wine was then aged in stainless steel and larger, neutral oak, which keeps the fruit bright and lets the grape's more delicate, nuanced qualities shine through, rather than being masked behind oak.
At a Glance: Key Bottle Details & Specifications
| Detail | Hermann J. Wiemer Cabernet Franc 2022 |
| Region | Seneca Lake AVA, Finger Lakes, New York |
| Grape | 100% Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| ABV | 12.5% |
| Fermentation style | Hand-picked, native yeast, about 30% whole cluster; aged in stainless steel and large neutral oak |
| Farming | Certified Biodynamic estate |
| Price point | About $27 |
Tasting Profile and Sensory Breakdown
Appearance and Aromatics
Characteristically, cool climate cabernet franc tends to pour translucent, with a medium ruby hue rather than an inky purple, which tends to signify finesse as opposed to power.
The bouquet vacillates pleasantly between earth and fruit, with notes of ripe red cherries set along a trail of forest floor dusted with hints of autumn leaves. These aromatics feel right at home on an autumn table.
Palate Structure, Acidity, and Finish
On the palate, this wine possesses real structure, but with a silken finesse. The wine introduces itself to the palate with bright red fruit, which deepens into something closer to a dark berry compote as it opens up in the glass. Tannins are, in my opinion, fine and polished, ensuring that the wine never feels harsh or drying in the mouth.
Fresh acidity ensures a clean, lively finish, while an alcohol level of just 12.5% keeps the wine light on its feet. That means this is a red you can enjoy through a long dinner without feeling weighed down. The wine possesses a clear balance of fruit, earthiness, and acidity that makes this bottle a great, affordably priced introduction to Finger Lakes red wines.
Food Pairings: How to Serve Hermann J. Wiemer Cabernet Franc
Food pairing is where Cabernet Franc really shines, as this is an intensely versatile red wine. Cabernet Franc's acidity refreshes the palate with each sip, while its fine tannins won't overpower more delicate dishes. Meanwhile, its earthy, herbal side loves savory dishes and rustic cooking.
Here are my top choices for pairing Cabernet Franc.
Savory Meat Courses (Herbed Lamb and Pork)
A classic match for Cabernet Franc is an herbed rack of lamb, perhaps prepared with rosemary and a garlicy crust. The wine's red fruit balances out the richness of the lamb, while the wine's more earthy notes (especially the forest floor mentioned earlier) echo the herbs. Roasted pork tenderloin, such as our recipe here, which sees the tenderloin stuffed with garlic, herbs, and cheese, would also be delicious. For maximal elegance, try pan-seared duck breast with a cherry reduction, which picks up the ripe cherry notes from the wine.
Charcuterie and Artisanal Cheese Pairings
For fuss-free entertaining, consider assembling a lush charcuterie board, centered perhaps around cured soppressata, sharp aged cheddar or a nice block of ricotta salata or feta, roasted red peppers, marinated eggplant, and a nice dish of olives. The wine's bright acidity will cut right through the salty and fatty cured meats, while beautifully complementing the cheeses. Conversely, a wild mushroom and thyme risotto is another great pairing, which would deliciously complement the wine's forest floor essences almost note for note.
Baked Camembert - The Star Pairing
For the autumn season, such as for a Thanksgiving appetizer, our favorite pairing for this particular wine is our Baked Camembert Galette.
Here's why this pairing works so well with this particular Cabernet Franc:
- Acidity Meets Richness: The Cabernet Franc's bright acidity cuts through the molten, buttery Camembert and the puff pastry, which works to keep each bite feeling light.
- Earth Meets Earth: The rind of camembert is mushroomy and earthy in character, which mirrors the wine's forest-floor aromas.
- Fruit Meets Fruit: The craisins and apricots work to echo the wine's red cherry and berry notes.
- Herbs tie it together: Rosemary and black pepper in the galette help draw out the wine's savory side, especially the dried herb notes.
Pro Tip: The galette's jam, honey, and cinnamon sugar give it a sweet edge, but very sweet foods can make a dry red wine taste tart. The recipe's salt, pepper, and lemon help keep things balanced, so skip any extra honey drizzle or sweet appetizers at the table.
Why this Wine is Great for Thanksgiving
The winemakers themselves recommend this bottle for Thanksgiving, and it is surely no wonder as to why. Thanksgiving is one of the trickiest meals to pair with wine, as I explained here, due to the holiday's mix of sweet, savory, rich, and tart flavors all occupying one plate.
Hermann J Wiemer's 2022 Cabernet Franc is a delightful pairing for precisely all of those qualities. Its acidity cuts cleanly through rich gravy and buttery sides, while its red fruit complements cranberry sauce. Meanwhile, its herbal and earthy notes match sage stuffing and thyme-roasted turkey. Importantly, because it is slightly lighter in alcohol than other bottles, it won't overwhelm white meat the way a heavier red can.
Final Verdict and Rating
LTG Rating
I'll award this bottle 93 points out of 100. The Hermann J Wiemer 2022 Cabernet Franc is everything a decent cool climate red wine should be. It is fresh, savory, layered, and very food-friendly. Clocking in at just $27 (as of this post), it delivers the sort of elegance you might only find in pricier Loire Valley bottles, proving that Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc deserves a place on any serious wine lover's table.
Who Will Love This Wine?
- Fans of Loire Valley red wines like Chinon and Bourgueil
- Pinot Noir lovers looking for something with a touch more spice and structure
- Home cooks looking for a single, versatile red for the whole holiday meal
- Anyone looking to explore Finger Lakes beyond Riesling, or looking to explore East Coast reds in general
Where to Buy
The 2022 Cabernet Franc is about 27 dollars when purchased directly from Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, and the winery ships to 41 states. You can also visit the tasting room in Dundee, New York, on the west side of Seneca Lake. While some wine shops offer similar pricing, availability varies.
Storage and Decanting Tips
Store the bottle on its side in a cool, dark place. Note that this wine is ready to be enjoyed now, but should hold up well for a few years.
Serve the 2022 Cabernet Franc slightly chilled, around 60 to 65°F. That said, if the wine has been sitting at room temperature, I recommend giving it 15 to 20 minutes in the fridge for best results. Decanting is by no means required, but I do recommend giving it 20 to 30 minutes of air prior to pouring, which helps its dark berry notes come to the forefront.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are notes of ripe red cherries, a hint of dried leaves and herbs, and notes of forest floor. These flavors are carried on a silky, medium-light body with fine tannins and bright acidity.
At this time of writing, the 2022 Cabernet Franc costs about $27 dollars per bottle when purchased directly from the winery. Retailers are similarly priced, though availability varies.
A slight chill does help. I recommend serving it around 60 to 65°F to keep the fruit fresh and lively.
Herb-roasted lamb and pork, mushroom-based recipes, charcuterie, baked Camembert, and the full Thanksgiving spread.
And that's our review of the Hermann J. Wiemer 2022 Cabernet Franc, and our first review for our Francsgiving Feature list. If you enjoyed this wine, or have any questions or suggestions, or tried any of the suggested pairings, be sure to let us know in the comments below; we always love hearing from you.
Cheers!
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