Canobolas Cabernet Franc 2022

Canobolas-Smith, based in the Orange wine region of New South Wales, is renowned for producing refined cool-climate wines. The Canobolas Cabernet Franc 2022 is a prime example of the estate’s dedication to expressing the unique terroir of the region. Orange, situated at high altitudes with volcanic soils, offers a cool yet sunny climate that allows grapes like Cabernet Franc to ripen slowly, preserving their aromatic complexity and natural acidity. Cabernet Franc, typically known for its elegance and aromatic profile, shines in this setting, producing a wine that is fresh, vibrant, and full of character.

The 2022 vintage saw favourable conditions, allowing for even ripening and concentrated flavours. Canobolas-Smith focuses on minimal intervention, allowing the purity of the fruit and the influence of the region’s volcanic soils to be fully expressed in the wine.

Appearance: Bright ruby with violet hues, signalling its youth and vibrancy.

Aroma: Aromas of red currant, raspberry, and black cherry burst from the glass, complemented by subtle notes of violets, dried herbs, and a hint of graphite. There’s also a delicate spiciness with a touch of white pepper and a light earthy, mineral undertone from the volcanic soils.

Taste: Medium-bodied and fresh, with juicy red fruit flavours like raspberry and mulberry dominating the palate. There’s a lively acidity that keeps the wine crisp and refreshing, balanced by fine-grained tannins. Savory herbal notes of thyme, bay leaf, and a touch of bell pepper add complexity, while a hint of earthiness gives the wine depth. The texture is smooth and elegant, making it easy to drink yet layered with nuanced flavours.

Finish: Long and vibrant, with lingering red fruit, herbal notes, and a subtle minerality. The fresh acidity keeps the finish lively, inviting another sip.

Pairings: Baked baby Dutch carrots with thyme and rosemary-infused honey, truffle, and hazelnut crumb. The wine’s fresh acidity and bright fruit will complement the sweetness of the roasted carrots, while its herbal notes will match the thyme and rosemary.

Charred broccolini with olive soil, chive, dried parsley, and toasted bearnaise sugo. The savoury, earthy flavours of the broccolini will enhance the wine’s herbal and mineral characteristics, while its fresh acidity cuts through the richness of the bearnaise.

Canobolas Cabernet Franc 2022 is a vibrant, elegant cool-climate wine that highlights the varietal’s aromatic finesse and balanced structure. It’s perfect for pairing with roasted vegetables or lighter meats, offering complexity without being overly heavy, and is ready to be enjoyed now for its youthful vibrancy.