2021 Thompson Estate Small Batch Cabernet Franc

COLOURMedium red with a slight purple edge.NOSEAn intricate display of bright red berry blackcurrant cherry and plum characters upfront with sweet violet delicate cinnamon oak spice and subtle fresh mint adds an extra depth of complexity.PALATEMedium bodied with elegant well-integrated juicy bright raspberry and blackcurrant fruits fills the palate effortlessly complimented with a soft yet firm tannin structure. The attractive red berry fruit flavours persist effortlessly with a hint of savoury spice on the finish.WINEMAKINGThe fruit was gently machine-harvested and processed into red fermenters where they are tenderly pumped over three times a day during fermentation to maximise colour extraction. Gentle handling of the fruit and wine ensures varietal character and freshness is maintained.VINTAGE NOTESWinter in Margaret River was typically wet and cold perfectly setting the vines up for the growing season ahead. A mild spring and early summer were kind to flowering fruit-set and canopy development. Late summer and the ripening season were not ideal. Periodically the region is subject to tropical rainfall conditions during late summer and autumn 2021 was one of those years. Luckily the vineyard site at Thompson Estate is set to weather the storm with excellent aspect old balanced vines and our winery right on site. All our fruit achieved optimum ripeness with a minimum of disease which was seen so prevalent across the region. The wines of 2021 will display ripe fruit characters be structurally made to age and typical of what you expect from Thompson Estate.WINEMAKING DETAILSWinemakers Paul DixonVariety Cabernet Franc 95 Cabernet Sauvignon 5Harvest Date 31 March 2021Oak 10 months French oakpH 3.45Titratable Acidity 6.72 gLReducing Sugar 2 gL