I continue to spend a large portion of my time tasting with who I consider to be the top importers in the United States as I feel this is a great way for readers to find high-quality wines, as well as up and coming producers.
This report focuses on new releases from Fran Kysela, who is unquestionably one of the top specialty importers in the US as well as an incredible taster. Originally from Cleveland OH, Fran cut his teeth working as the national sales manager form Kermit Lynch, followed by a stint at Weygandt-Metzler in Pennsylvania. He received the Master Sommelier award from the British Court of Master Sommeliers in 1989.
Founding his own import company in 1994, Kysela has an incredibly diverse portfolio spanning the gamut from high quality yet inexpensive German Rieslings, chuggable Picpoul de Pinet from the Languedoc, classic Rioja, to a bevy of both value and benchmark producers from the Rhône Valley. I’ve tasted with Fran for almost a decade now and his wines are always impeccably made, with an emphasis on fruit and texture, yet always with classic, balanced characters. In addition to wine, Fran also brings in Beer, Spirits, Sake, and Cider.
There are over 170 wines in this report, including a number of brilliant value whites and reds that will be perfect for the coming summer months.
As always, happy hunting and thanks for reading,
Jeb