Anyone familiar with Washington wines knows that Cabernet Franc is not the typical grape used around these parts. Most local vintners go for the bolder, more straightforward Cabernet Sauvignon.

But Lance Baer decided to concentrate on Cabernet Franc in his signature Ursa, a red wine that comes across as more nuanced, and perhaps a little bit irreverent.

That detail says everything about a man who spent his life defying expectations, examining alternatives and finding a path that was uniquely his own. His modus operandi was: Start with careful research, trust your instincts and stay authentic.

“He would always examine things, always question things and always have his own philosophy on things. He would say, ‘Here’s the way I want to do it,’ and he would do it that way,” said his older sister, Lisa Baer.

From the Seattle Times, read the article here

Tasted by McCall Cellar. Tasted side by side with Andrew Will (ceil du chival). Crowd favorite is the Baer. (91 pts.) - Tasted 5/7/2007. [FIND IT!]