2019 Frankland Estate Olmo's Reward Cabernet Franc Blend Organic, Frankland River

Cabernet franc, malbec and cabernet sauvignon. It took me a number of years to understand this wine, and it wasn't until I understood the Frankland River regional DNA that the flavours, but most specifically, the textures here, made sense to me. This is concentrated and supple to start, but the flow of tannins doesn't tread the same path of say, a Margaret River cabernet blend (nor should it). Here, the tannins are gravelly and leaning towards rustic, speaking of ferrous and ironstone. They lend a graphite quality and are the key to this wine. The fruit is abundant within the framework of the phenolics; a snow dome of cassis, blackberry, nori, iodine, blood plum and licorice. It's a beautiful wine with longevity and patience in equal measure.

96 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

From the remote and pristine Frankland River region in Western Australia’s Great Southern comes Olmo’s Reward, a distinctive red blend that reflects both the purity of the landscape and the philosophy of Frankland Estate. The estate was established in 1988 by Barrie Smith and Judi Cullam and remains family run today, with their daughter Elizabeth Smith and winemaker Hunter Smith guiding the wines. The vineyards are farmed organically, allowing the ancient gravel and loam soils of the Isolation Ridge site to express themselves clearly in the finished wines. Olmo’s Reward is built around Cabernet Franc, supported by Bordeaux varieties that thrive in the region’s cool climate and long growing season.

The wine shows a deep crimson colour with vibrant purple highlights. Aromas open with blackcurrant, red plum and dark cherry layered with classic Cabernet Franc notes of violet, dried herbs and graphite. As the wine breathes further layers of tobacco leaf, cedar and subtle spice emerge. The palate is structured yet refined with fine tannins carrying flavours of cassis, blackberry and savoury herbs across a balanced frame. Fresh acidity from the cool Frankland River climate keeps the wine energetic while gentle oak influence adds depth and polish. The finish is long and elegant with a lingering mix of dark fruit and savoury spice.

It will reward cellaring over the next twelve to fifteen years and suits roast lamb, grilled beef, slow braised dishes or earthy mushroom based cooking.