OK, so in May of 2026 I participated with Lenn Thompson of the New York Cork Report, and other wine writers like Allison Slute of the Cab Franc Chronicles, and Keith Beavers Tastings Director at Vinepair, and Byron Elmendorf, winemaker at Macari Vineyards. It was a terrific day of tasting out on Long Island.
Macari Vineyards is located in Mattituck on the North Fork of Long Island, and is owned and operated by the Macari Family. The family's regenerative agricultural farm, was established more than 50 years ago by Joseph Macari Sr. The first vines were planted back in 1995. The winemaker is Byron, as noted above, and of course there is long time promoter, sales person, and enthusiast Gibson Campbell, who has become synonymous with the brand.
The Macari Cabernet Franc 2024 is a 100% estate Cabernet Franc, aged in oak approximately 9 months, on 9% was aged in new French Oak, the rest was neutral oak. Notes of fresh ripe cherries and cream. Cranberry. Red cassis. There's a hint of slate and spice. And lovely, medium tannins, like a light tea. The over all impact is exceptional. Fresh fruit up front. A smooth easy drinking middle, and a lovely refreshing acidity which lends to good lingering red fruit.
The Macari Cabernet Franc Lifeforce 2024 was, as usual, a revelation. I always forget how much I like this wine, until I have it again. I truly believe that the Lifeforce Cab Franc is one of the ten best Cabernet Francs on the eastcoast, and will definitely be on my end of year lists for best wines. This wine is made using concrete eggs, and had always exhibited a unique flavor and body. This wine explodes with fresh sliced cherries, eucalyptus, and herbs and spice. There's bright fruit up front - fresh cherries, red raspberries, a hint of stewed strawberries, and nice notes of minerality. Soft but firm tannins, like a light tea. White pepper and cranberry tannins. This wine is very well balanced, with terrific complexity and sophistication. The fruit lingered and linger long after my sip was done. A spectacular wine.
Congrats to the Macari family and to Byron and Gibson.