Tapanappa Whalebone Cabernet Franc Merlot 2012

Tapanappa is a prestigious winery in South Australia, known for its focus on crafting wines that express the distinctive terroirs of its vineyards. The Tapanappa Whalebone Vineyard Cabernet Franc Merlot 2012 is a perfect reflection of this ethos, showcasing fruit from the renowned Whalebone Vineyard in the Wrattonbully region. This vineyard is planted on ancient limestone soils, similar to those in Bordeaux, making it ideal for growing Bordeaux varietals like Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The 2012 vintage is particularly exceptional, benefiting from a warm, dry season that allowed the grapes to develop great concentration, depth, and structure.

The blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot brings together the elegance and floral notes of Cabernet Franc with the richness and softness of Merlot, creating a wine of complexity and balance. Aged in French oak barrels, the wine has developed a seamless integration of fruit, tannins, and oak, showcasing the depth and longevity for which Tapanappa wines are known.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a dark, inky core, showing the wine’s age and concentration.

Aroma: The nose is complex and layered, offering aromas of blackberries, ripe plums, and dark cherries, intertwined with earthy notes of cedar, tobacco, and graphite. Subtle floral hints from the Cabernet Franc emerge, alongside spicy notes of clove, leather, and a touch of dried herbs.

Taste: Full-bodied with a velvety texture and fine, well-structured tannins. The palate displays rich flavours of blackcurrant, plum, and dark cherry, complemented by earthy undertones, graphite, and a touch of black pepper. The oak ageing has added layers of vanilla, toast, and a subtle smokiness, without overshadowing the fruit. There’s a lovely freshness from the Cabernet Franc, balancing the richness of the Merlot.

Finish: Long and elegant, with lingering notes of black fruit, spice, and a touch of dried herbs. The tannins are firm but refined, promising further development with age.

Food Pairing: The Tapanappa Whalebone Cabernet Franc Merlot 2012 pairs beautifully with rich, hearty dishes. It is a perfect match for slow-braised beef short ribs, where the wine’s tannins and dark fruit complement the richness of the meat. It also pairs well with roasted lamb or a venison stew, where the wine’s earthy, herbal notes enhance the depth of the dish. For a simpler pairing, try it with aged cheddar or blue cheese, which will highlight the wine’s complexity and savoury character.