2023 Wantirna Estate Hannah Cabernet Franc Merlot

Only one barrel of this wine is made each year - less than 300 bottles - so it’s a rare release from Wantirna Estate.

It’s a 50/50 blend of Cabernet Franc and Merlot, made in the style of Saint-Émilion in France. The wine spends twelve months in a new French oak barrique from Dargaud and Jaeglé, followed by another fifteen months in bottle before release.

You can smell the Cabernet Franc straight away — lifted and floral — with Merlot bringing soft fruit and roundness. The flavours are balanced and fine, with gentle oak in the background. It’s elegant, medium-bodied and quietly confident.

If you get the chance to try it, don’t hesitate. This is one of the small gems of Victorian wine.