2019 Frankland Estate Olmo’s Reward

The 2019 Frankland Estate Olmo’s Reward is 67% Cabernet Franc, 17% Malbec, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Merlot. All varieties used in the blend were dry-grown on mature vines in the Isolation Ridge Vineyard at Frankland Estate. The vineyard sits on an undulating northern and eastern facing slope on ancient duplex soils of gravel and loam over a clay sub-soil. It is farmed using organic viticultural practices (certified organic in 2009) and this is reflected in the depth and concentration of fruit flavours. Cabernet Franc is the hero of this blend, we find it suits our vineyard the best out of the Bordeaux varieties, over the years this has gone from being a Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon dominate wine to now a Cabernet Franc/Malbec dominant wine.
Each variety was fermented separately as slowly as possible at temperatures not exceeding 27°C. Open fermentation tanks facilitated working the cap with gentle plunging taking care to minimise tannin extraction. After fermentation, an extended maceration period allowed desired flavour and tannin resolution. The component wines were blended on completion of the malolactic fermentation and then aged in 500-litre French oak puncheons for 15 months.
This is a complex and distinguished wine of its own kind. Plum red colour, lifted fresh red berries interlaced with hints of vanilla and cedar, dried Italian herbs, brambles, plum and dense alluring, mouth-watering aromas. The palate is soft and juicy and it bursts into blue fruits across the palate supported by mouthcoating textural tannins that add weight and complexity. There are subtle nuances of saline, tobacco leaf, earthy, anise and savoury elements. Its beautifully layered and complex. Well balanced acidity draws this complexity of flavours across the palate for a long, seamless finish. – Hunter Smith