2018 Stonebridge Cabernet Franc Reserve

By Michael Godel, Wine Align (Rating 93)

Stonebridge Reserve from a single vineyard within the Twenty Mile Bench is

cabernet franc well-wooded, aged and now more than ready to roll. A woollen

character noted and for the signature red grape there is this punchy ripeness

that keeps ample freshness alive in the face of quickening maturity. Putting

this cabernet franc away for 31 months in barrel was a matter of vintage that

produced fruit able to hold onto, withstand and assimilate this amount of time.

Exotic aromatics, like a Zanzibar spice cupboard and classically structured.

Tar and candied roses, specifically asphalt and then the petals also dipped in

chocolate. Clearly chic and stylish in ways cabernet franc won’t often accede

but this is clearly the work of low yields, high concentration and a no corners

cut barrel program. Many wood scents and flavours but just so much fruit to

match stride for stride, even if it has already hitting the peak. Easy to

consider this 2018 as a lush and substantial cabernet franc with which to

impress for the next few years. Freshness is very persistent and this wine has

many years of life ahead. Would love to see the winery celebrate the vineyard

by naming it on the label in lieu of the ubiquitous “single vineyard” catch

phrase. Drink 2023-2027. Tasted April 2023.