Gold Medal London International Wine Challenge 2021
From the exceptional 2018 vintage springs this aromatic, brooding, concentrated and complex shiraz from one of WA’s great shiraz regions. Salted mulberry, raspberry, blackberry and licorice, layered with red licorice, bitter cocoa, star anise and that regional stamp of ferrous/red dirt/earth. Ripe acidity weaves in and out of the long finish. This will bring pleasure now, and well into the future. 96 points James Halliday winecompanion.com.au 2022
The 2018 vintage will go down as another outstanding one in Frankland River. Leading into vintage we had favourable conditions for flowering and fruit set, followed by ample rainfall to ensure vine canopies and fruit balance where at their best. Vintage conditions were perfect for ripening and resulted in a return to a harvest that commenced in mid-February and concluded in mid-April. Mild weather and little disease pressure has resulted in wines that have beautiful flavours and great natural acidity.
The bouquet is rich and spicy with cherry, mocha and licorice. The palate is full of plum and berry flavours supported by soft velvety tannins. Aged in French oak for eighteen months, this wine offers excellent cellaring potential.