And the winner is …

Yes, I was drinking Cabernet Franc until my pinkies stood out straight.

Ha.

As I reported previously, me dear wife Karen surprise-gifted me with five bottles of great wine for my birthday.

I proceeded to drink the Cab Franc a glass or two a night quite happily.

Three came from our Central New York’s Finger Lakes region wineries. One came from California and from Italy.

I promised I’d pick a favorite.

I liked them all …

OK, I’ll keep my word.

My No. 1 is from Forge Cellars Willow vintage 2021, on Seneca Lake, narrowly beating out Bloomer Creek Vineyards vintage 2019, from Hector in Central New York.

The Bright Leaf from CNY, Michael Davis from California and I Clivi from Italy were ThisClose.

I was thrilled to sample them all. Each carried distinct characteristics.

Consider my palate expanded.