The Red Tail Ridge James Suckling Report highlights our Cabernet Franc in James Suckling’s Finger Lakes tasting feature, “Fresh and Franc: Finger Lakes’ Post-Riesling Rise.” The report captures a pivotal moment for the region as it gains recognition for cool-climate red wines alongside its world-class Riesling.
In the report, James Suckling’s tasting team places a strong emphasis on cabernet franc. The variety thrives in a cool climate. It reflects site and vintage clearly. Most importantly, it delivers freshness, balance, and restraint.
During the tastings, Red Tail Ridge’s Cabernet Franc Seneca Lake RTR Estate Vineyard captured attention. The wine showed vibrancy and precision. It also expressed a clear sense of place. That recognition speaks directly to our estate vineyard and our hands-on approach in the cellar.
At the same time, the report makes something else clear. The Finger Lakes no longer tells a one-grape story. Instead, it continues to evolve.
Across the region, winemakers now focus on thoughtful farming. They make intentional varietal choices. They emphasize balance over excess. Consequently, the Finger Lakes continues to earn respect on the world stage.
At Red Tail Ridge, we share that vision. We farm with purpose. We work closely with our vineyards. Then, we let the wines speak for themselves. Whether through cabernet franc, riesling, or other cool-climate varieties, our goal remains the same: honest expression of Seneca Lake.
Finally, we invite you to experience these wines firsthand. Visit our tasting room overlooking Seneca Lake. Or, explore our current releases online.
For more insight into the region’s evolution, you can read the complete James Suckling article here:
Fresh and Franc: Finger Lakes’ Post-Riesling Rise.
Being featured by James Suckling marks an exciting milestone. More importantly, it reflects the direction of our region. The Finger Lakes continues to grow, evolve, and impress—and we’re proud to be part of that story.
Published on January 12, 2026
The piece situates Red Tail Ridge Winery’s 2023 Blaufränkisch in the context of the Finger Lakes’ continued exploration of cool-climate red varieties.