Another year, another challenge. By popular demand, the challenge variety for 2023 will be…Cabernet Franc!

Why Cabernet Franc? First, it was the overwhelming choice of people polled on my Facebook page. Second, it is another Rodney Dangerfield variety. It gets no respect!

To participate, all you need to do is have at least one bottle of Cabernet Franc from the Pacific Northwest (Washington, Oregon, Idaho, or British Columbia) each month in 2023. This can be either a varietally designated wine or a blend where Cabernet Franc is the principal variety. It could be a red, white, rosé, or even a sparkling version of the variety. (Each of those exist in the Pacific Northwest!)

You’re welcome to focus on a particular state or area or explore the region in full as you see fit. As in previous challenges, I encourage everyone to explore and taste beyond your usual favorite producers.

If you’re up for the challenge, leave a comment here or on my Northwest Wine Report Facebook page stating, “I accept the 2023 Northwest Cabernet Franc Challenge.” At the end of each month/beginning of the next, I will post on Facebook asking what wine people had to keep us all accountable.

Here’s to more Northwest Cabernet Franc in 2023!

Image by Richard Duval