2022 Hermann J. Wiemer Cabernet Franc "Magdalena Vineyard", Finger Lakes, New York, USA

ABOUT THIS WINE

This 2022 vintage hails exclusively from the Magdalena Vineyard, one of Hermann J. Wiemer’s warmest and most expressive sites, located on the western shores of Seneca Lake. The site’s glacial soils—rich in shale and clay—along with its southern exposure, allow Cabernet Franc to ripen fully while retaining its hallmark freshness and aromatics. In the glass, the wine reveals a layered and varietally pure profile: floral aromatics of violet and rose petal intertwine with red cherry, black raspberry, and a whisper of green peppercorn. There’s an earthy, ferrous undertone beneath the fruit that adds depth.

Fermented with native yeasts and aged in a combination of neutral oak barrels and large-format foudres, the wine reflects a restrained hand in the cellar, prioritizing clarity of site over embellishment. Its sleek structure and brisk natural acidity make it a versatile companion to dishes such as duck breast with cherry compote, mushroom risotto, or grilled lamb with rosemary.

ABOUT THIS PRODUCER

Hermann J. Wiemer is widely recognized as a pioneer of quality viticulture in the Finger Lakes, established in the 1970s by its eponymous founder, a German-born winemaker who brought Old World rigor to a then-nascent wine region. Today, the estate is led by Fred Merwarth and Oskar Bynke, who continue to build upon Wiemer’s legacy with an emphasis on site-specific wines and sustainable farming. The estate’s vineyards—including Magdalena, Josef, and HJW—are farmed organically with meticulous care, and the winemaking philosophy leans toward minimal intervention, allowing each vineyard to speak for itself. Precision, integrity, and a deep commitment to the land define the winery’s approach, making Wiemer a benchmark for cool-climate American wine.