For well more than 30 years Lenz Winery, under the deft hand of the now retired Eric Fey, the house was known for its old world styles Merlot and Chardonnay….and great sparkling. But with the ascension of Thomas "Tom" Spotteck to head winemaker, Lenz has gone through something of a reboot. Tom still produces top notch old world wine, but has introduced some exceptional new wines to Lenz's lineup as well. Chief among them is his Cabernet Franc.
At the recent cab frock forward, tasting in February in New York City I recently caught up with him. Tom happily poured his newest - Lenz Cabernet Franc 2021. It was not that long ago that Lenz did not even bottle a Cabernet Franc. From the very beginning, Tom’s wine immediately put Lenz squarely in the quality Cab Franc conversation.
Lenz Cabernet Franc Estate Select 2021 is harvested by hand, Made in small lots, it then aged in a combination of neutral and new-ish French oak. The overwhelming note on this medium bodied wine is the fruit forward statement - bright cherry, red raspberry, and plum explode from the glass. Floral notes, hints of spice, and a lovely, soft white pepper finish accentuate this fruit forward, but well structured, wine - an absolute pleasure.