2023 Usonia "Schmeritage"

Frank Lloyd Wright coined the term "Usonia" to refer to his vision of a fully democratic American landscape, unbound by Old World conventions. Usonia Wine founders Julia and Alex Alvarez-Perez imbue their wines with this ethos, revealing new aspects to the evolving wine tradition of New York's Finger Lakes region. They work with riesling and cabernet franc, two varieties that have deep roots in the area, and experiment with disease-resistant, cold hardy, American and French hybrid varieties. According to the winemakers, "Schmeritage" is "Definitely not our take on an American wine category made from Bordeaux grapes." It's a blend of merlot and cabernet sauvignon purchased from Macari Vineyards in North Fork of Long Island, cabernet franc from their home vineyard in west Cayuga Lake, and lightly macerated tocai friulano from Ventosa Vineyards in East Seneca Lake. Made in a light, juicy style, a chill would not hurt this easy-going red. Served with grilled chicken, burgers, and hot dogs.