Dukes started dabbling with this variety a few years ago, and he makes it in an almost no-holds-barred manner, creating a cabernet franc with structure, purpose, and tremendous power. So if you're used to your cabernet francs that are a little bit wimpish, this ain't one of 'em. Deep blackberry, dark plum, and dark chocolate notes on the nose. A plush, quite supple palate, but one supported by a firm thread of chalky tannins and plenty of oak to keep things honest. It's a wine of great poise, with the capacity to handle some extended ageing.

Earthy and smoke undertones framed by cooked fruit aromas. Polished tannins, nicely textured on the palate. Award: Bronze - DWWA 2025

Overview

"Cabernet Franc is the shy little sister of the Bordelaise family: aromatic, soft textured and boasting pristinely fine tannin and drive.

The decision to craft an expression of Margaret River as seen through the mode of this noble and ancient grape was an easy one, particularly when faced with fruit grown in the heart of Wilyabrup and on our quintessentially alimental gravel loam soils.

Having achieved a perfect balance, the fruit is picked, carefully destemmed and kept as whole berries for fermentation. Gently handled and pressed after 12 days on skin to 500L French oak Puncheons, 40% of which are new.." - Domaine Naturaliste

“The fruit was harvested based on achieving a balance of tannin and flavour ripeness while maintaining fruit freshness. 55% new barrels until the wine has achieved its own harmony, which was 14 months. The barriques are primarily from forests in the Center of France, Troncais and a touch of Bertrange. The wine then enjoys another year in bottle before release." - Domaine Naturaliste