Gertie Clare Valley Cabernet Franc 2021
It’s a violet-scented, aromatic Cabernet Franc, a deep seam of blueberry beneath, and a swirl of smoky sappy, stony minerals on top.
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2021
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The Gertie Clare Valley Cabernet Franc 2021 – It’s a violet-scented, aromatic Cabernet Franc, a deep seam of blueberry beneath, and a swirl of smoky sappy, stony minerals on top. In the mouth that intense, spice and herb-flecked black fruit runs smoothly through to a tight, nicely delineated and long finish. Delicious and impressive. ‘Tom Cannavan’ Also Pristine bramble fruit, the spicy, sweet, green smell of fresh bay leaves (so characteristic of Cabernet Franc) and an afterthought of scented roses.
It’s a rare Cabernet Franc from South Australia‘s Clare Valley and brings with it all the aromatic appeal, vitality and depth of the variety: pristine bramble fruit, the spicy, sweet, green smell of fresh bay leaves (so characteristic of Cabernet Franc) and an afterthought of scented roses.
The palate is bright and ripe with delicate woodsmoke and juniper berry cadences, a seamless texture, fresh, herbal acidity and just a hint of bitter sloe adding to the complexity. Joanna Simon
Forty percent whole-bunches were included in the ferment with wild yeast, before ageing in old French oak. Minimal sulphur was used.
Ben Marx, the winemaker, takes a hands-off approach to let the fruit shine; so it’s wild yeast fermented, with a small percentage of whole bunch (i.e. stems on), and unfined and unfiltered. It’s also organic – “more than organic” apparently – but certification is too expensive for a small winery.
Ben Marx has been making wine for 19 years now, so I’ve been through some boom times and some tough, but the one commonality is that he still love to drink great wine.
Tasty Cabernet Franc from very special blocks in the Clare Valley. The down side to this is that there is very little Franc left in the Valley. On the up side you have made it here while there is still room on the Gertie Gallon allocation list, see the next page for details!
This year Ben Marx gave the ferment 3.5% whole bunch to add another layer of complexity to both the nose and palate. Down a touch from last year due to the fruit having slightly faster ripening period. Due to the year I also gave four weeks post ferment skin maceration to help build structure and depth of flavour.
Although I don’t hang my hat on the fact this wine has no adds except minimal sulphur just prior to bottling, I think it’s worth a mention. Gertie is not filtered and may not be as crystal clear as some may be expecting!
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc has proven to be very robust and produce good quality red wines in a range of climates. This is a clue to its diversity of tastes. From tart red fruit flavours in cooler climates such to more dried fruit flavours and fuller bodied wines in warmer areas such as Tuscany and California. You’ll also find a mixture of savoury, tart, and herbal flavours in moderate climates, such as Bordeaux.
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The Country
Australia, with its vast landmass spanning over 7.5 million square kilometres, offers a rich tapestry of wine styles. Climates and topography vary significantly, resulting in unique terroirs that shape the character of Australian wines. Here’s a glimpse into the grape varieties and wine styles you can discover:
Shiraz (Syrah): Often hailed as Australia’s flagship grape, Shiraz thrives in various regions. Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon vines flourish in South Australia, particularly in Coonawarra and Margaret River. Chardonnay: Australia’s Chardonnays range from unoaked and fresh to full-flavored and creamy. Riesling: Cool-climate regions like Clare Valley and Eden Valley craft exquisite Rieslings. Pinot Noir: Tasmania and Mornington Peninsula are Pinot Noir havens. Sauvignon Blanc: Adelaide Hills and Margaret River produce zesty, refreshing Sauvignon Blanc.
In this vast and diverse landscape, Australian wines invite you to explore, savor, and celebrate the artistry of winemaking
The Region
South Australia is the historic heart of Australian wine, boasting some of the most famous regions, well-known wineries, and oldest vines in the country such as Adelaide Hills just 20 minutes east of Adelaide, Barossa Valley world-renowned for its historic vineyards and full-flavored Shiraz, Grenache, and Cabernet Sauvignon, Connawarra Known worldwide for its outstanding, age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon and McLaren Vale South Australia’s first wine region, established in 1838,
The Producer
Ben Marx has been making wine for 19 years now, so I’ve been through some boom times and some tough, but the one commonality is that he still love to drink great wine.
Tasty Cabernet Franc from very special blocks in the Clare Valley. The down side to this is that there is very little Franc left in the Valley. On the up side you have made it here while there is still room on the Gertie Gallon allocation list, see the next page for details!
This year Ben Marx gave the ferment 3.5% whole bunch to add another layer of complexity to both the nose and palate. Down a touch from last year due to the fruit having slightly faster ripening period. Due to the year I also gave four weeks post ferment skin maceration to help build structure and depth of flavour.
Although I don’t hang my hat on the fact this wine has no adds except minimal sulphur just prior to bottling, I think it’s worth a mention. Gertie is not filtered and may not be as crystal clear as some may be expecting!
