2016 Tapanappa Whalebone Cabernet Franc Merlot, Wrattonbully
A$81.73
Availability:
Out of stock
SKU
10398CFM16
Comments by Brian Croser, Winemaker
Although 2016 Tapanappa Whalebone Vineyard Cabernet Franc-Merlot is from the warmest vintage at Wrattonbully, it is fresh, elegant and ethereal. The aroma is dominated by the floral and spice of Cabernet Franc, red berries and only a hint of Merlot’s plum pudding richness. The varietal complexity is underpinned by an earthy, smoky Eucalypt bouquet typical of the Whalebone terroir. The flavours are fresh and lively with an underlying varietal complexity.
Despite the warmth of the 2016 vintage the Tapanappa Whalebone Vineyard Cabernet Franc- Merlot has the elegance and finesse expected of this right bank varietal blend. The tannins are fine and grainy providing a savoury and long finish.
Only 250 dozen grown and made.
Merlot makes up 44% of the wine, while cabernet franc is 56%. Always good to see franc holding sway.
When I first tasted this I thought there was too much bubble-gum oak, and for some people there probably is, but as it breathes dust and pure blackcurrant flavours burst forward as rugged, muscular tannin rumbles into place. We have a wine of swagger here, a bold wine but a vital one, with choc-mint characters aplenty along with gravel, seaweed and red licorice. It’s a wine of wealth. It takes its alcohol in its stride. It has quite a run ahead of it.
94 points Campbell Mattinson winefront.com.au Jun 2020 Drink 2022 - 2032
| Product/Service Sold Out | Yes |
|---|---|
| En Primeur | No |
| New Arrivals | No |
| Wine Type | Red Wine |
| Country | Australia |
| Region | Wrattonbully |
| Varietals | Merlot, Cabernet Franc |
| Vintage | 2016 |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Wine Points | 94 |
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