Nathan Kendall 'Nathan K.' Primeur Cabernet Franc, Finger Lakes, New York

From the cool-climate slopes surrounding New York’s pristine Finger Lakes, N. Kendall Wines presents the ‘Nathan K.’ Primeur Cabernet Franc, a vibrant, elegant red that captures both the freshness and finesse of the region’s terroir. Crafted in a lighter, early-drinking style (Primeur), this wine emphasizes fruit purity and aromatic lift, showcasing the graceful side of Cabernet Franc from one of America’s most exciting cool-climate regions.

Product Details:

• Producer: N. Kendall Wines
• Region: Finger Lakes, New York, USA
• Grape Variety: 100% Cabernet Franc
• ABV: 11.8–12%
• Farming Practices: Sustainably farmed vineyards; minimal intervention winemaking
• Soil Type: Glacial soils with clay, shale, and limestone influence
• Fermentation: Native yeast fermentation in neutral vessels
• Aging: Brief aging in stainless steel and neutral French oak to preserve freshness
• Production Quantity: Small-lot, handcrafted release
• Style: Red – Savory and Classic

Sensory Description:

The ‘Nathan K.’ Primeur Cabernet Franc opens with expressive aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and wild strawberry, accented by delicate notes of violets, green peppercorn, and graphite. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied, offering fresh red fruit flavors supported by lively acidity and fine, supple tannins. Hints of crushed herbs, pencil shavings, and minerality add complexity, leading to a long, lifted finish that reflects both the precision of the Finger Lakes and the varietal’s natural charm. Elegant, refreshing, and food-friendly, it’s a modern, minimal-intervention expression of Cabernet Franc in its purest form.

Awards & Accolades:

• 93 Points – 2022 Vintage – Wine Enthusiast
• Gold – 2023 – New York Wine Classic
• 92 Points – 2021 Vintage – James Suckling

Wr’s Background:

Founded by Nathan Kendall, a Finger Lakes native with international winemaking experience in Burgundy, Oregon, and New Zealand, N. Kendall Wines focuses on creating site-driven, small-lot wines that highlight the unique cool-climate character of upstate New York. Working with sustainably farmed vineyards and native yeasts, Kendall produces elegant, low-intervention wines that balance texture and purity. The ‘Primeur Cabernet Franc’ represents his playful yet precise take on an early-release red, fresh, aromatic, and unmistakably Finger Lakes.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve lightly chilled at 14–16°C (57–61°F) in a Burgundy or Pinot Noir glass to enhance its aromatics and delicacy. Pairs beautifully with grilled filet steak, roasted duck breast, or herb-crusted lamb. It also complements Black Forest ham, Appenzeller cheese, or vegetarian dishes like roasted beet salad with goat cheese.

Bright, nuanced, and effortlessly drinkable, Nathan Kendall's Nathan K.’ Primeur Cabernet Franc captures the Finger Lakes’ cool-climate purity in a glass a wine that’s as thoughtful and expressive as the landscape from which it comes.