Cabernet Franc from New Zealand - Hawke's Bay
Review Date : 01-Dec-2025
Deep ruby-red with a purple core, even colour throughout. The nose is expressive and lush, with aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, violet, blackcurrant leaf and a touch of pencil lead. Medium-full bodied, aromas of blackcurrant and blackberry, entwined with violet, unfolding a touch of graphite and blackcurrant leaf. The fruit is dense with good concentration and packed with flavour. Velvety tannins provide structure and unfold subtle herbaceous details, adding interest. An appealing Cabernet Franc with impressive lushness and length. Match with Wagyu bavette and shepherd's pie over the next 10 years. Fruit from Omahu Vineyard near Gimblett Road and Fratelli Vineyard in Bridge Pa, a blend of 86% Cabernet Franc and 14% Cabernet Sauvignon, handpicked, destemmed, fermented to 13.6% alc. Aged in barrels, 30% of the blend aged for 13 months, and 70% for 8 months in 1-4 year old barrels. 19/20 pts (95 pts) Dec 2025 RRP $40
