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Is this Coonawarra's answer to Pinot Noir?
This is the third Nimble Coonawarra Cabernet Franc to be released. Safe to say, it was a hit from day 1. This wine seduces you from the first whiff of bright, vibrant, and intensely aromatic fruits which literally leap out of the glass at you.
Cabernet Franc may be a lesser-known variety, however, it has been grown here in Australia for a long time. Originally from the Loire Valley of France, Cabernet Franc is often used in the production of blended wines, particularly in the famous Bordeaux region. However, in recent years, winemakers in Australia have started to recognize the potential of Cabernet Franc as a standalone variety.
This wine was grown on the famous Terra Rossa soils of Coonawarra, where the limestone base upon which the red clay rests is clearly evident in the wine.
The fruit was harvested in the cool of night and pressed directly into a fermenter where gentle pump-overs gradually extracted the vibrant colour and soft tannins. The wine was aged only in stainless steel, as to preserve the vibrant aromatics and delicate flavours of the grape. Bottling was early for the same reason.
The result is one delicious glass of wine - reminiscent of a Pinot Noir in many respects, but with its own distinctive fruit flavours. For me, this is Coonawarra's answer to Pinot Noir.
Where & When:
Wines like this are versatile and adaptable. Try chilling it on a hot day, enjoying with an antipasto platter or your favourite pasta dish. A spicy lamb salad, for sure.