2021 Vinework Cabernet Franc

Cabernet Franc (100%)

2021

Margaret River

We had a great summer leading up to vintage, although a rain event about a week or so before the start of harvest lead to some unusually humid conditions (for Margaret River at least). Careful fruit selection in some vineyards was required as a result of the humidity, despite experiencing good weather during the white harvest. The end of the whites saw a bit more rain, which was then followed by fine weather for the rest of March setting up the Cabernets nicely. In summary 2021 was a more challenging season than usual, however the extra work in the vineyard ultimately paid dividends with some wonderfully elegant wines being produced as a result. Cabernet Franc has always played an historic role in many Xanadu Cabernet blends spanning back to the early 80’s. 100% of the fruit for this Cabernet Franc is from our oldest vineyard, the Lagan Estate. The last straight varietal Cabernet Franc was made in 1996!

Ruby red with vibrant purple hues.

Ripe fruits of the forest, red currant and cassis integrated with framed by fine French oak, interwoven with hints of dark choc-mint and dried herb in the background.

The palate is medium bodied and elegant, layered with red plums and forest fruits supported by fine tannins which lead to a supple, lingering fruit finish.

Vibrant and eminently drinkable in its youth, this finely structured wine will also benefit from further bottle maturation and will reward short to medium term cellaring.

14.0%

750ml

3.54

Fruit was destemmed and lightly crushed before small batch fermentation in a static fermenter. Fermentation takes 7-8 days @ 24 – 26oC, during which the cap was managed using aerative pumping over for 7 days before gentle pressing. The wine was then matured for 14 months in French oak barriques (20% new) before the blend was assembled prior to bottling.