Tasting notes
Cabernet Franc is a traditional French variety that has the same, if not greater status as Cabernet Sauvignon.
In 1965 scientist Dr John Gladstones identified the Margaret River as having natural conditions highly favourable for growing Cabernets. He made particular mention of the small sub-region of Bramley, where Jarvis Estate is today located. The estate is also the home of vignerons Matt & Jackie Jarvis and all of the fruit used in the wine was grown on the home vineyard.
The 2006 vintage will go down as one of the coolest ever in Margaret River and the fruit was harvest over one month later than usual. The long growing season ensured that the fruit ripened to full sugar levels and the resulting wines were overall elegant in structure with a soft mouth feel and good length to the finish.
The cooler summer also saw yields drop significantly with Matt Jarvis ensuring that cropping levels in the vineyard were down 40% on previous years. This was to ensure even ripening and resulted in intense flavours.
Rich ruby in colour this wine has lifted raspberry, blackcurrant, cherry and floral notes on the nose as well as a slight savouriness and lifted oak. As the wine opens up it develops more complex aromas of eucalyptus and liquorice.
The palate is soft and rounded with integrated oak, cherries, blood plum and raspberry flavours providing a long and persistent finish. This wine is drinking very well now but will also reward patient cellaring for 10+ years.
For further information on Jarvis Estate in Western Australia please refer to www.jarvisestate.com.au