New York Cork Report

• By Lenn Thompson
  1/1/2009 (link) 2.5 out of 5 stars

  (Bedell Cellars Red Blend First Crush Red) This is the debut vintage of First Crush Red (and its sister First Crush White), a blend of 56% Merlot and 44% Cabernet Franc that are both aged almost entirely in stainless steel. I can't find any details on just how little oak is involved though. When it comes to white wines appreciate such a judicious use of oak, but here, I think I miss what oak brings to the party. The nose is bright, youthful and extremely aromatic (no doubt from all of that cab franc) with ripe, just crushed cherry and plum aromas and a sprinkling of violet petals. On the palate, its fresh and a bit Beaujolais-like. The flavors closely match the nose, with medium body that is soft, fruity and very approachable. The tannins are low and while there is some acidity here, I think it lacks structure a little bit overall. Still, if you can pick it up for $12 though, it's worth it just for the aromatics.