Cabernet Franc 2023 - Black Market Deal #65505

The 30% whole bunch fermentation sets this wine apart, creating a more lifted, perfumed style compared to traditional destemmed Cabernet Franc. This technique preserves the grape's natural aromatics while adding subtle spice notes and a silkier texture. Combined with the cool Yarra Valley climate, it produces a fresher, more elegant expression that showcases the variety's herbaceous complexity without overwhelming tannins.

Yarra Valley's cool climate and varied soil types create perfect conditions for Cabernet Franc to retain its characteristic herbaceous notes while developing proper ripeness. The region's temperature variations between day and night help preserve acidity and develop complex aromatics. This climate allows the grape to ripen slowly, building flavour intensity while maintaining the fresh, lifted character that makes this variety so food-friendly.

The wine's medium body and herbal complexity make it incredibly versatile with food. The pink peppercorn and bay leaf notes complement roasted lamb or herb-crusted chicken beautifully, while the fresh acidity cuts through rich pasta dishes. The chalky tannins and red fruit profile also pair excellently with aged cheeses, charcuterie, or even salmon with herbs.

Using seasoned rather than new French oak allows the fruit and varietal character to shine without being masked by heavy wood flavours. This approach adds subtle structure and texture while preserving the wine's natural freshness and drinkability. The oak provides a gentle framework that supports the red cherry and blackberry flavours without adding vanilla or toast notes that might compete with Cabernet Franc's delicate herbal complexity.

This 2023 Cabernet Franc is designed for immediate enjoyment, with its emphasis on purity and drinkability making it perfect for current consumption. The gentle extraction and seasoned oak treatment create a wine that's already showing beautifully integrated flavours. While it could develop additional complexity over 2-3 years, the fresh fruit character and energetic style are at their peak now, making it ideal for enjoying while the vibrant aromatics are most pronounced.