The 2023 Cabernet Franc is sourced from vineyards on both the east and west sides of Seneca Lake. Each lot was vinified separately in one-ton bins, with 20% saignée prior to fermentation, 10% whole cluster inclusion, and native yeast fermentations. Aged for 12 months in neutral French oak, this red was bottled unfined and unfiltered. True to the region’s style, a savory through line connects the crunchy red berry fruit from nose to finish. Cherry, pomegranate, and raspberry notes mingle with cedarwood spice, while soaring tannins frame the medium-bodied palate. The finish carries rose stem and earthy nuances. One of the cleanest and most structured Cabernet Francs I tasted from the vintage.

Damiani’s 2023 Cabernet Franc Reserve takes everything great about their standard Cabernet Franc and elevates it—more polish, more juiciness, and a silkier expression across the palate. Sourced from a mix of three estate sites and two grower vineyards on both the east and west sides of Seneca Lake, the fruit was fermented in 1-ton bins with 20% saignée and 15% whole cluster inclusion, all with native yeast. Aged 16 months in neutral French oak, the wine is bottled unfined and unfiltered. Bright red berry fruit and fine brown baking spices lead the aromatic charge, while cherry-skin tannins glide across the palate with a juicy, plump texture. The finish lingers with blood orange zest, rose oil, coriander seed, and finely etched cedar spice.