The 2019 Cabernet Franc, also with 11% Merlot, is the so-called "cream label" because of its color. It is unoaked and comes in at just 12.5% alcohol. The idea here is a good Beaujolais style, and this fruity red does not disappoint. It is soft in texture and fruit-forward, but there's also some firmness on the finish to go with the delectable fruit, at least initially. The tannins do fall off quickly, though. It leans more to black fruits than herbs and vegetables, but it is a beautifully balanced Cabernet Franc that is a lot of fun. There's nothing profound here and not a lot of concentration, but it is easy to adore this for its supple and tasty fruit. It is fine to drink right now, but it should hold well for several years. Still, it's not the one I'd want to turn into a cellar candidate for too many years, no matter how long it theoretically lasts. Enjoy it on the younger side to preserve the fresh and exuberant fruit.

The 2018 Cabernet Franc, the so-called "cream label" because of its color, is unoaked and comes in at 12.7% alcohol. Winemaker Kelby Russell said that, in many ways, this wine "uses Cru Beaujolais as a touchstone." That is true in that this is fruit-forward and spicy, with a pure and fresh finish. That said, this year actually has a notable tannic pop on the finish as well. Then, it shows off its relatively good concentration in this tough year. It doesn't show, however, much expression of fruit or character, at least not yet. Overall, this has the potential to be a surprisingly good off-vintage red, but it is a little tight and a little hard to read. Let's start here and see where it goes. There were 355 cases produced from vines at Glacier Ridge vineyards, Seneca Lake.

The 2017 Cabernet Franc, the so-called "cream label" because of its color, is unoaked and comes in at 12.8% alcohol. Meant to be easy and fresh, this is the first red I've actually seen from Red Newt. Previously, this was a "footnote" in the program, the winery said. "Fresh" is certainly the first word that comes to mind here. This is a forward Cab Franc with high acidity that makes the fruit dance across the palate. There are some traces of herbal nuances, but it is not overly green, in case you're wondering. There's not much in the way of power or concentration, but if you like acidity and freshness, this works in the role it is obviously designed for—a classic "summer red." In other words, drink it a little cooler than normal and let it be enlivening on a warm summer day at a picnic. Acidity often preserves, but there is no point to holding this—it has nowhere to go but down. Drink it as young as possible for best results, no matter how long it theoretically lasts. There were 335 cases produced.