Squitchy Lane Cabernet Franc 2024

Squitchy Lane is the love child of football great and Rhodes scholar Mike Fitzpatrick. Just like his career(s) he does things differently with his wine label, championing Cabernet Franc from the Yarra Valley. This wine launches into the glass with black cherries, blackcurrants, violets,  lavender, and a hint of spearmint. As it breathes, sweet cinnamon spice and freshly baked, vanilla scented, chocolate cake delights. In the mouth, more berries are added to the buffet with cranberries red currants and blackberries joining in. It has the potential to be a crowd pleaser with its medium body, fine chalky tannins and crunchy Heirloom apple acidity; making food pairing a breeze from simple charcuterie or pizza to luscious roast duck or pork belly (with crackling, of course!).  But it’s more than that. For those that like to linger and ponder, layers are revealed,  in the same way Cabernet Franc from the Loire Valley behave (the variety’s signature region). Having tried multiple vintages now of Squitchy Lane’s Cabernet Franc, there’s no question in my mind that they are quietly leading the way in Australia with this variety. Only 70 dozen made – don’t miss out!