2008 The Islander Estate The Investigator Cabernet Franc

Jacques Lurton is somewhat wine making royalty having worked over 60 vintages across 25 regions within 10 different countries. Jacques graduated from Bordeaux University in 1983 and has been working around the world ever since. He has a love of Cabernet Franc, a variety that is the principle in French classics such as Cheval Blanc and characterises much of the reds from the Loire Valley. The Cabernet Franc produced by Jaques is a mix of old and new world winemaking techniques that gives richness, structure and complexity.

The 2008 has been held back in the cellar for 6 years prior to release enabling the wines elements to integrate seamlessly. The wine gives a deep red hue, the nose combines fleshy plum and ripe blackberry with vanillin oak and subtle milk chocolate.

The palate is supple and rich on entry but gains a more savoury aspect across the journey with wonderfully supporting tannins. There is great balance to finish with acid and tannin so in tune with dark berried fruit and layered French oak. The length is considerable, and this wine will age well over the next decade.

Could Cabernet Franc be a forgotten variety of Australia ripe for resurrection ?