2022 Domaine Naturaliste Le Naturaliste Cabernet Franc, Margaret River

Dukes started dabbling with this variety a few years ago, and he makes it in an almost no-holds-barred manner, creating a cabernet franc with structure, purpose, and tremendous power. So if you're used to your cabernet francs that are a little bit wimpish, this ain't one of 'em. Deep blackberry, dark plum, and dark chocolate notes on the nose. A plush, quite supple palate, but one supported by a firm thread of chalky tannins and plenty of oak to keep things honest. It's a wine of great poise, with the capacity to handle some extended ageing. Cellar for up to 15 years.

96 points Ray Jordan Wine

The 2022 Le Naturaliste is 100% Cabernet Franc from the western side of the home vineyard in Wilyabrup. "It's planted in the hardest, leanest, ironstone gravel that I've got," says winemaker/proprietor Bruce Dukes. This is the Mercier 214 clone of Cabernet Franc grafted on 26-year-old roots to no rootstock, own roots. Gentian and violet, licorice, blueberry, ground pepper and bay leaf abound. The wine has a tarriness to it, like civet paste and sweet tobacco. The wine is matured in large-format oak, and this, according to Dukes, allows the aromas to sing. The fermentation temperature is several degrees lower here than in the Cabernet Sauvignon. He says, "You've got to be very gentle with Cabernet Franc." This is a lovely wine. Drink 2025-2037.

95 points Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate, December 2025

Perfumed aromas of blackcurrants, blueberries, pencil shavings, violets, cocoa and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins and balanced acidity, giving notes of dark cherries, plums, crushed stones and cured meats. Structured and floral with great depth, texture and poise. Drink or hold.

95 points James Suckling, August 2025

Medium-depth ruby with a tinge of purple; there are pungent herbal notes of cigar-butt, a hint of humus; the palate sweetly fruited on entry, with a touch of savouriness followed by a firmer, more drying sensation on the finish, thanks to abundant grainy tannins. A very grown-up cabernet franc. Drink 2025-2035.

92 points Huon Hooke, The Real Review, October 2025

From Margaret River’s cooler, more refined pockets, Domaine Naturaliste continues to explore varieties that suit the region’s maritime climate, and Cabernet Franc feels right at home. Founded by Bruce Dukes, one of Western Australia’s most respected winemakers, the estate focuses on purity, balance and site expression, and Le Naturaliste shows a slightly more playful, aromatic side of the range.

Cabernet Franc thrives in conditions where it can ripen fully without losing its natural lift, and Margaret River delivers that balance beautifully. The result is a wine that leans into perfume, spice and freshness rather than weight.

Bright ruby in the glass, the aromatics are lifted and expressive. Red cherry, raspberry and plum sit alongside violet, bay leaf and a gentle leafy note that gives the wine its signature character. There is also a subtle hint of spice and earth adding depth.

The palate is medium bodied and lively, with red fruits flowing across fine, silky tannins. A line of fresh acidity keeps everything vibrant, while the herbal and savoury elements build through the mid palate. It finishes clean and persistent, with a balance that makes it both refreshing and quietly complex.

This is a natural partner for food that brings out its savoury edge. Roast chicken, duck, or dishes with herbs and spices all work beautifully. It also pairs well with vegetable driven dishes where its freshness can shine.

Drinking beautifully now and over the next five to eight years while its brightness and structure remain in balance.

There is an easy charm here, a Cabernet Franc that feels both approachable and thoughtful, offering a slightly different take on Margaret River reds.