You’re two guys that get out of winemaking school and want to put your mark on the world of wine, what do you do? You start your own label of course. That’s exactly what friends Chris Fornasier and Adam Kern did, welcome to Bench Trial Wines – now before you ask, neither is a lawyer, but they know some. Their first truly impressive wine is this Subpoena, made from 100% Cabernet Franc aged in French (25% new), fermented naturally and allowed to age 3 years in bottle – and truth is it could go much longer. Nose is cassis, blackberry and cocoa with some smoky notes for added character. Palate is a touch on the tight side, but give it some time in either decanter or glass; rich, smoky, and mocha kick things off, then comes the raspberry, smoked cherry, pepper and black currant – and I am sure it is not done yet. This wine is worth a sit in cellar, say 5-6 years, just to watch it mature. As for Chris and Adam, I hope we hear more from these guys in the future. Price: $40.00 – Rating: ****+