Varietals, Vineyard & Harvest: 100% cabernet franc, clones 214 and 327 grown and hand-harvested at Black Bank Hill on 23 October 2023 at 23.2 brix. Winemaking: The grapes were destemmed and lightly crushed prior to a wild/ambient fermentation in tank. 20-months élevage in 19% new French oak barrels. Estate bottled unfiltered and unfined at Black Bank Hill 25 July 2025. Vintage Note: This wine speaks directly to the exceptional 2023 cool-climate conditions, which present the balancing forces of higher cloud-cover and moderated sunshine with an ongoing consistency of heat driving complete phenolic ripeness. Wine Description: Dark ruby in colour. Aromas of cherry, blueberry, plum, raspberry, eucalyptus, violet, jalapeño pepper, with wild bramble, cassis, roasted red pepper, thyme, graphite, kalamata olive and cocoa, on the palate. Medium-plus in body and acidity and ripe and fine tannins, with an exceptional energy and finish to this wine. Already very pleasurable upon release but will benefit from further cellar/bottle aging. Peak drinking window from 2028+. Acidity & pH: TA 7.3 g/L, pH 3.41 Sweetness: Extra dry on the palate containing 0.5 g/L residual sugar Alcohol by Volume: 13.8% Production: 169 cases
