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Wednesday, 29 March 2017

Airlie Bank Cabernet Franc 2016

A recent trip to the Yarra Valley had me yearning for some of the alternative varieties that are on the rise there. Whilst known for the excellence of those Burgundian stalwarts Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it's often the road less travelled that excites me!

Airlie Bank is a secondary label for Punt Road, which just seems to be excelling under the watchful eye of head winemaker Tim Shand. However, a visit to their Cellar Door left me reeling in disappointment for, such is the popularity of this wine, it has already sold out. That's where excellent Healvesville based retailer Barrique stepped in.

So, here we have 100% whole bunch Cabernet Franc, "blended and bottled in its youth to capture its juvenile vibrancy". Need I say more!

The bunch work lends it that stemmy, herbal, briary air. The palate shows further complexity: a mix of sarsaparilla fruit and the savoury bent that derives from the judicious use of stems. Towards the back end of the wine is a licorice twist that carries presence long across the palate. 

A long bow, excellent savoury penetration. 92 

Tasted on: Monday 27th Match, a Flower to Leaf day
Source: Retail, Barrique
Price: $22
Alcohol: 13%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: https://puntroadwines.com.au

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