2020 Frankland Estate Olmo's Reward Cabernet Franc Blend Organic, Frankland River

Cabernet franc is at the heart of Olmo’s Reward with glugs of cabernet sauvignon and for the first time mourvèdre and a splash of malbec. This is up there as one of the finest to date. A seamless combination of the varieties morphs into a unified, harmonious red. Supple, fine tannins yet intrinsically powerful in a way, as they coat the fuller-bodied palate, but this never feels big or weighty. The finish is as long as it is beautiful.

96 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

Deep colour with a good purple tint, the bouquet bacon-fat oak, smoky and peaty/earthy aromas with some blackberry peeping through, the palate full bodied and bright with ample ripe fruit flavour and richness, nice fleshy texture, and persistence. A full bodied and satisfying glass of cabernet, with firm finish and plenty of substance. It would take some age well too. 30 Mar 2023 Drink 2024–2035

95 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com

Frankland Estate Olmo’s Reward from Frankland River is a masterful Cabernet Franc blend that showcases the elegance, structure, and complexity that this under-the-radar Western Australian region can produce. Crafted by winemakers Hunter Smith and Brian Kent, this flagship wine pays tribute to Dr. Harold Olmo, the pioneering viticulturist who identified Frankland River as a prime location for growing Bordeaux varieties. Sourced from organically farmed estate vineyards, Olmo’s Reward is a beautifully structured blend that typically includes Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Malbec, with the final composition varying by vintage to best express the season’s character.

Deep ruby in color with a vibrant rim, the wine opens with lifted aromas of blackcurrant, red plum, and dark cherry, interwoven with floral notes of violet, dried herbs, and graphite. Subtle oak influence adds layers of cedar, cocoa, and exotic spice, complementing the wine’s natural earthiness. The palate is finely structured yet powerful, delivering juicy black fruit, cassis, and a touch of tobacco, all framed by silky yet persistent tannins and bright acidity. A long, elegant finish lingers with notes of crushed stone, mocha, and savoury spice.

This wine is a natural partner for herb-crusted lamb, slow-braised beef short ribs, and roasted duck. It also pairs beautifully with hard cheeses like aged Gouda or Manchego. While drinking beautifully in its youth with a good decant, Olmo’s Reward is built to evolve over 10–15 years, developing even greater depth, tertiary notes, and textural complexity.

Frankland Estate continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in Western Australia’s Great Southern region, and Olmo’s Reward is a testament to their dedication to site-driven, elegant, and thought-provoking wines.