Jones Winery, located in Shelton, Connecticut, is part of the large Jones Family Farms. The Jones family started farming their land in 1858. Originally, the farm focused on dairy farming. In the mid-20th century, the farm began transitioning away from dairy production and focused more on growing Christmas trees and berries. Then in 1999 Phillip Jamison "Jamie" Jones, a sixth-generation farmer and graduate of Cornell University, returned to the family farm and planted his first acre of vineyard. Watching the successful growth of the vineyard, Jamie established the Jones Winery in 2003, with his wife Christiana. He continues to run all the growing operations of the vineyard and large farm.
Winemaker Joseph Patrick first worked at the Jones Family Farms in high school. He then went off to receive a college degree in Viticulture and Enology, and then worked at Red Newt Cellars and Glacier Ridge Vineyards in the Finger Lakes. Joe then returned to his roots at the Jones Winey, and soon rose to be the head winemaker.
I've always thought of Jones Winery as an excellent producer of white wines and sparkling, at which they have excelled at for many seasons, Joseph's pedigree was evident. But this most recent tastings of his reds have shown tremendous promise.
However, Cabernet Franc has shown well in New England over the last ten years, Many people, especially "experienced wine" professionals, especially writers, scoff. But, people often forget that much of the wine growing country in Connecticut is just opposite the North Fork across the Long Island Sound. Yes, Jones Winery is a little more inland, but still bears much (not all) of the same weather as the southern part of the state. The same moderating influences that help Long Island wine, work similarly for Connecticut - if the vineyard manager and the winemaker know what they are doing. These two gentlemen know. And this new Cabernet Franc is notice that Jones Winery is ready to take its place among the top producers in New England.
The Jones Family Farm Estate Grown, Connecticut, Cabernet Franc 2022 is a high watermark for the winery and the state. The wine was fermented on the skins for three weeks. It was then pressed into stainless steel tanks, and then barrel aged for twelve months in Hungarian oak. This produces a medium-bodied dry red wine with flavors of raspberries and ripe red fruits, with notes of spice and hints of cassis and tobacco . The finish is dry, and the fruit lingers for about 45 seconds in an absolutely beautiful way. Lovely complexity and balance. A super impressive wine.
Jones Family Farm Connecticut Cabernet Franc 2022 is a stunner from the other side of Long Island Sound.