A single-variety wine from Hawke’s Bay, grown in their stony, sandy river terrace vineyard. Showing good varietal typicity, with that ‘Franc funk’ smoky and earthy character to the fore. A brilliant ruby colour, with toasted wood, plum, cranberry, bramble, pepper, rhubarb and acacia on the nose. Vibrant on the palate, with more savoury notes of leather, wet stone and tobacco, plus a deeper, liquorice and umami element, over that sweet berry fruit. Good concentration builds from that lighter start, and it ends drier and spicy on the finish. 92pts
Askerne Cabernet Franc 2021
