Recognition

The 2008 Whalebone Vineyard Merlot Cabernet Franc remains under cork but it’s a beautiful specimen: long and firm. The wine is a deep, blood red with an intriguing bouquet of plum cake, sweet aromatic spices and a touch of mint. The palate is deep and satisfying with sweet plummy fruit and a fresh raspberry lift. The toasty oak is well integrated and the finish long. A delight with rare beef now. Five years cellaring will see it a suitable companion to an aged cheddar.