New York Cabernet Franc: Uniting the State, Focusing the Future

No.74 | Regional Reporting

In February, producers from across New York State gathered in Manhattan for the second year in a row to celebrate Cabernet Franc from New York as part of the Cab Franc Forward 2026 Grand Tasting. Forty wineries from three principal growing regions were pouring more than 250 Cabernet Francs of all shapes and sizes for thirsty and curious wine professionals and consumers in what was the largest regional tasting of Cabernet Franc ever held outside of Europe.

Launched in late 2024, Cab Franc Forward is the brainchild of Max Rohn of Wölffer Estate and Gabriella Macari of Macari Vineyards, who set out to increase awareness of the quality and distinctiveness of Cabernet Franc from New York State. Partnering with six other founding wineries from across Long Island, the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley, the group’s promotional efforts over the last 15 months has garnered New York Cabernet Franc acclaim from influential journalists, top sommeliers and international wine critics, and has charte…