Salmon Run Meritage 2008

Grilled a few NY strip steaks this past week-end and looked forward to opening a nice red wine for change.  Seemed to be stuck on Finger Lakes white wines all summer.  I did pass on a few nice California reds though and stayed with the Finger Lakes and a Salmon Run Meritage 2008 ($11), a blend of 54% Cabernet Franc, 39.5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 6.5% Merlot.
In 1993, Dr. Konstantin Frank Vinifera Wine Cellars expanded production with the introduction of a value brand, Salmon Run, which is in honor of the majestic landlocked Salmon and beautiful Keuka Lake. I found the Salmon Run Meritage to be a lot more than expected for a value brand.
Lots of nice aromas.  Little licorice, some black currant, a dose of blueberry, a hint of smoke and a deep forest woodsy aroma on the nose.  Like the aromas there were lots of nice fruit flavors in the mouth of currant, plum, blackberry and a little spice.  The finish was nice and long, spicy, dry with a taste of currant.
Very nice choice with the grilled steak.  Had a glass later in the evening with a Yancy's Fancy Champagne Chedder cheese, made right here in the Finger Lakes.  This is becoming a favorite of mine.  A nice light flavor and soft texture cheese which I found pairs well with all my favorite white and red wines.  New York Cheese and New York Wine, two great reasons to love New York and the Finger Lakes.