2018 Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc

An ancient Chestnut Tree with an interesting back story stands in front of Sue-Ann's home and serves as the namesake for one of our most special wines. The 2018 Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc shows the same intensity, longevity and dominance as this beautiful tree.

Silver, 90pts — Decanter World Wine Awards 2022
Silver, 90pts — International Wine & Spirits Competition 2022
Bronze — Texsom International Wine Awards 2022

Vinification: Sue-Ann vinified the Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc from 100% estate-grown, hand-picked fruit. After harvesting in late October 2018, the grapes spent 28 days on skins, where simultaneous alcoholic and malolactic fermentation took place. After pressing and light settling, we transferred the wine to French and American oak for 22 months of barrel aging.

Tasting notes: The Chestnut Tree Cabernet Franc is an immensely satisfying wine from start to finish. On both the nose and the palate, the wine suggests ripe currant, blackberry and plum, along with balancing hints of cedar, pencil shavings, and tobacco. Elegant, full-bodied, and well-integrated — drink now or cellar for up to three more years.

Serving suggestions: A full-bodied Franc with grippy tannins, delicious on its own or paired with aged Cheddar, red meat, charcuterie, and dark chocolate.

• Harvest Date: November 1, 2018
• Blend: 100% Cabernet Franc
• Alcohol: 13.0%
• Residual Sugar: 3.0 g/L
• Titratable Acidity: 5.8 g/L
• pH: 3.68
• Cases Produced: 230 cases

Perfumed, with bramble fruit and a hint of chocolate; palate of plush, concentrated fruit and wild graphite notes. — Decanter Tasting Panel

Enticing cassis with medicinal undertones and a wonderfully balanced palate that is infused with sweet spice and chocolate. Moreish to the core. — IWSC Tasting Panel