2017 Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge Shiraz Organic, Frankland River

“…these distinctive wines (Frankland Estate) are totally different from any other Australian wine I have tasted. What sets them apart is an underlying singular graphite-like character that gives them an earthy, terroir driven quality in both the aromatics and flavours….” - Robert Parker.

 

Initially brooding and dark opening up to a bright fresh wine. Hints of black olive and an iodine saltiness combine with fresh toasty oak, spice and black pepper. A sweet core of red currant and plum flavoured fruit leads into the subtle use of French oak which sits comfortably with the fine-grained tannins giving the wine a presence and length. Savoury, briary fruits lead into an enticing ironstone flinty note and mineral complexity. The small addition of viognier and malbec add to the wines complexity. A fine example of an outstanding vintage in Frankland River, it is approachable now but has the structure and finesse to reward long term cellaring.