Review: Wines of Dr. Konstantin Frank, 2026 Releases
More than any other American holiday, Thanksgiving demands quite a bit from the wine list. There needs to be something that can stand up to turkey, cut through whatever’s in the gravy and still work with that mystery dish your aunt brings that is of indeterminable origin. New York’s Konstantin Frank has inadvertently constructed a lineup for this exact litmus test. Riesling remains one of the stable cores of their operations, bright enough to handle the richest of foods without flinching. However, the reds and rosé also earn their seat at the table, and today we’re checking out a trio suitable for the big dinner and every preference.
2025 Dr. Konstantin Frank Dry Riesling – While they may call this a dry Riesling, what pours in the glass clearly has other ideas. Lime zest, nectarine and cold apple leap out before even committing to a sip. There’s a slow, almost syrupy viscosity across the tongue, and a trace of sweetness cutting through from underneath. Acidity arrives at the right moment, bright and crisp as biting into an actual apple, and the orchard flavors stay put as the finish lingers. A steal at this price. A- / $20
2024 Dr. Konstantin Frank Old Vines Pinot Noir – Dried herbs, baking spices and a touch of graphite meld with red berries, giving this a lovely evocation of winter’s imminent arrival. As the palate progresses, the light body carries the fruit forward, but its balanced with a nice kick of clove. The finish carries on with a touch of chocolate and dark cherry, with tannins framing everything quite nicely. It’s incredibly approachable and versatile: it will pair well with a well-dressed turkey, but also as a solo standalone for when the relatives have left, the dishes are drying, and the silence of your house returns to provide merciful and sweet relief. A- / $28
2025 Dr. Konstantin Frank Cabernet Franc Rosé – There’s a surprisingly big and complex aroma of juicy cherry, fresh peach and a touch of floral influence on the nose, with a distinctive layer of mocha and oak cutting through with some time in the glass. The light-to-medium weight palate is rich with orange and fig, and there’s a slightly chalky edge to the finish, providing a bit of grit. It’s well-balanced and holds up incredibly well for the price point. This one deserves a spot on the table before the main event. B+ / $20
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