Saint Clair ‘Pioneer Block 30’ Cabernet Franc 2020

From the ‘Table Top’ block in Gimblett Gravels, Hawke’s Bay, and a great vintage – the COVID-hit 2020. A dense ruby in the glass. Perfumed with cassis, strawberry, thyme, boysenberry, cinnamon and blueberry, but not finding that signature ‘Franc funk’ that often defines the single varietal Cab Francs. Fresh acidity and balanced use of oak. A lower tannin profile lets the fruit shine – ripe, herbal and flowing. A few savoury notes creep in, including a black tea, mushroom, and bitter-dark chocolate. A lovely, easy-going red wine, but missing some character and definition of varietal. 86pts