Ever since it's inception of Fjord Vineyards, co-owner and winemaker Matthew Spaccarelli has had a way with Cabernet Franc. His were not wines sunk into new oak, instead he always went for a brighter, softer, more approachable red wine. Fruit forward, with great, floral and fruity noses, tremendous fruit on the palate, and exceptional finishes, with soft tannins, bright lasting fruit, and terrific complexity. Yes, red wines, but delicate red wines that enticed the carnivore while beguiling white wine lovers. A delicate balance to be sure. These have always been iconic reds, in the valley, with a growing following around the state and the East Coast.
Take for example his Fjord Vineyards Hudson River Region Rose 2024 was a bowl full of bright cherries, flowers, and strawberries. With hints of raspberries and lemon curd, this rose' sang beautifully. Delicate, floral, fruity, zippy, and lip-smacking. Spectacular.
Matthew Spaccarelli
Casey Erdmann
Then there's the other voice of Fjord, wife, mother, and co-owner and head of all things media and sales, Casey Erdmann. She has been the enchanting, funny, indefatigable promoter of these exceptional wines. Together, they make an earnest and formidable team.
All the more reason I was anticipating the tasting o the Fjord Vineyards Estate Cabernet Franc 2023 at the Cab Forward event in NYC some months ago. This 100% Estate grown Cabernet Franc was aged 8 months in 2-5 year old 500L French oak puncheons. The wine had real depth of color, and yet exhibited deep and concentrated notes of violets and dark berries. There were notes of spice on the palate along with fruit notes of blueberries and cherry. Incredibly complex and well balanced, this wine was soft on the end, and amazingly drinkable.
Pretty soon, Fjord's Cab Francs will reach cult status, as they already have among winemakers and regional aficionados. And as they deserve. Delicate. Well balanced. Complexed. Layered. Iconic.