A First Look at Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc

N.20 | Out & About

The concept of a signature grape is one that has been long been embraced by wine professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether it be Sauvignon Blanc being synonymous with New Zealand or Malbec putting in Argentina on the map, signature varieties not only help make it easier for consumers and wine professionals seek out wines and styles they will enjoy, but for the wine-growers in the region, the connection with a signature grape can serve to unify and advance the region as a whole by fostering a spirit of collaboration and community around a single variety.

I have long believed that Cabernet Franc could be THE red vinifera variety that all wine regions of New York State could proudly embrace is their flagship grape. And for a small group of producers in the Hudson Valley, there was no question that Cabernet Franc was going to be the grape that would help put their region on the map.

Earlier this week, I attended a trade and media tasting of the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition host…