ENTWINED THE JOURNAL OF FRANKLAND ESTATE

GOLDEN YEAR Reflecting on what may well be a near perfect 2018 Royal Melbourne Show Triple Triumph Discover our new and exciting

No.11 Spring/Summer 2019 The Frankland Estate Journal

TOP OF THE CROP: OUR FINEST IN 30 YEARS?

Frankland Estate’s Hunter Smith reflects on what may well be a near perfect 2018 vintage.

E’VE BEEN MAKING in the Frankland River region since we first Wplanted vines over thirty years ago, it’s the that we’re often renowned for. Whilst winemakers often talk of idyllic vintage conditions, there’s been few years that we’ve been so excited about as we are 2018. It was near perfect – a wet three months from July to September 2017 set up the vines beautifully for a flourish of spring growth. The weather gods then shone upon us with sunshine sparking an onset of good flowering, which resulted in average to above average crops. Rainfall was below average, but the cool daily temperatures meant that the vines showed no water stress.When the time came to the fruit and see it carefully make its way into the , it was nothing short of pristine. We knew we had both excellent flavour ripeness and good acid levels – mouth- wateringly good! PATIENCE NOW BEING REWARDED Whilst the perfect ripening conditions have helped produce an exceptional 2018 vintage, the three decades of management and evolution of viticultural practices are also starting to pay dividends in terms of quality. Tweaking our pruning regimes and trellising systems, selecting particular varietal clones of and utilising organic fertilisers to encourage a unique microbiology in our soils to allow them to flourish, are all having an impact on the evolution of what defines our brand. It’s now been fourteen years of managing the organically and we’re confident that the depth and complexity of the flavours is due to this constant pursuit of excellence. WHAT THE CRITICS HAVE TO SAY...

The exceptional 2018 ISOLATION RIDGE 2018 POISON HILL 2018 FRANKLAND ESTATE conditions are now being VINEYARD RIESLING VINEYARD RIESLING RIESLING “OMG. Incredible complexity on the nose “Wonderful clarity to this riesling with “A delightful citrusy, appley nose with some highlighted in the wines, with crushed-stone, slate and lemon character. white peaches, minerals and hints of stone fruit in the background. Complex, with the 2018 Isolation Some nutmeg and white pepper, too. Full- spearmint. Full-bodied, dry and fruity. textured and layered example with good bodied with a crunchy and creamy palate Beautiful length. Stones and tangy fruit development potential. Drink now Ridge Vineyard and 2018 that highlights the bitter-lemon and mineral at the finish. Drink now.” or within 10-15 years.” Poison Hill Vineyard flavours. Very, very long.” James Suckling, June 2019 WWA, 2019 Rieslings living up to our James Suckling, June 2019 ...... very high expectations 96 points Nick Stock 95 points James Halliday 95 points Decanter World Wine Awards for the vintage. We jamessuckling.com, June 2019 2020 2019 96 points Huon Hooke Companion 95 points James Halliday guarantee you won’t The Real Review, May 2019 94 points Gary Walsh 2020 Australian Wine be disappointed. 96 points Top 100 Wines 2019 The Wine Front, May 2019 Companion Gourmet Traveller Wine 2019 94 points James Suckling 93 points Toni Paterson 95 points Gary Walsh jamessuckling.com, The Real Review, May 2018 The Wine Front, May 2019 August 2019 Buy online franklandestate.com.au 95 points James Halliday or call our Cellar Door on (08) 9855 1544 2020 Australian Wine and we’ll help with your selection. Companion Vol: 11, 2019 3

LOOKING TO ADD SOME OF OUR 2018 SINGLE-VINEYARD RIESLINGS TO YOUR CELLAR? Don’t delay, they are drinking superbly right now and with accolades continuing to be received they won’t last long.

FLYING HIGH

When the time came to harvest the fruit and see it carefully make its way into the winery, it was nothing short of pristine.

QANTAS & ALL NIPPON AIRWAYS SERVING OUR RIESLING

rankland Estate Isolation Ridge This year marked All Nippon Airways’ F Vineyard Riesling has had a long (ANA) maiden flight from Perth to history of being selected to be served Tokyo, and we had a fortunate turn of in the First Class cabins on Qantas. events. Hunter had a chance encounter On showing the selection committee with a few of the wine selection panel the 2018 Isolation Ridge Vineyard for ANA and he just happened to have Riesling they have again put it up the a bottle of riesling in his hands. very pointy end of the plane alongside While not many words were exchanged the 2015 Olmo’s Reward. it was decided on the spot that the We’re sure Dr Harold Olmo, would be 2018 Frankland Estate Riesling would pleased to know (in his humbled way), be served in Business Class. that the wine Judi and Barrie named in his honour is now flying at 30,000 feet A great accompaniment to the across to his homeland of America Daichi Ramen. in First Class! The Journal of Frankland Estate

Royal Melbourne Wine Show TRIUMPH A TRIFECTA OF TROPHIES FOR FRANKLAND ESTATE

TROPHY WINNER 2019 TROPHY WINNER 2019 TROPHY WINNER 2019 BEST ORGANIC OR BEST WESTERN THE TREVOR MAST TROPHY AUSTRALIAN FOR BEST SHIRAZ

HE ROYAL MELBOURNE WINE organically over 14 years ago and gained Matt Harrop, Chair of Judges at the Royal SHOW IS ONE OF THE MOST Australian Certified Organic accreditation in Melbourne Wine Awards, said “It’s T PRESTIGIOUS SHOWS ON THE 2009 so it is particularly satisfying to receive beautifully fragrant with a poised palate - AUSTRALIAN WINE CIRCUIT. recognition for our pioneering efforts.” spicy, intriguing and just so lovely. That wine is the complete package.” The 2019 show was certainly one to Hunter Smith, Owner & Vigneron remember for Frankland Estate, with the “Despite all the changes in the wine industry, Unsurprisingly the Frankland River region The 2017 Shiraz 2017 Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge one thing has remained the same; great wines is widely becoming recognised as being is selling quickly. Vineyard Shiraz, picking up the Trophy one of ’s finest Shiraz growing are made in the vineyard. Organics has Don’t miss out on this for Best Organic/Biodynamic Wine, Trophy brought our Isolation Ridge Vineyard to life, regions. The Mediterranean climate of warm days and cold nights, combined award-winning wine. for Best Western Australian Shiraz and the literally! Enormous energy, over many years, with the unique ironstone soil found in This is your last chance famed Trevor Mast Trophy for Best Shiraz has been poured into the Isolation Ridge our Isolation Ridge Vineyard, produces to order the 2017 Isolation of Show. Vineyard Shiraz and we’re proud to be Shiraz of power, refinement and finesse. Ridge Shiraz, Visit our Hunter and Brian were on hand to receive recognised as one of Australia’s best wines.” This Shiraz aims to capture all the website or see enclosed the awards and were thrilled, it is a great Brian Kent, Head Winemaker. quintessential fruit opulence, black order form. result not only for our wines but for awareness Shiraz accounted for 25 percent of all pepper and spice notes for which the of the region on the national stage. entries in the competition, but it was the region has become renowned. “Shiraz in has seen some 2017 Frankland Estate Isolation Ridge great advances and I’d say the heartbeat of Vineyard Shiraz that came up trumps this change is here in the Frankland River in a field of 745 wines beating many well- region. We started managing our vineyard known and higher priced wines.

“It’s beautifully fragrant with a poised palate - spicy, intriguing and just so lovely. That wine is the complete package.”

Matt Harrop, Chair of Judges Royal Melbourne Wine Awards

Above Hunter Smith and Brian Kent celebrate at the Royal Melbourne Wine Show. Vol: 11, 2019 5

SHOWCASE: FRANKLAND ESTATE SHIRAZ OWNER AND WINEMAKER HUNTER SMITH ON THE CONSTANT LOVE AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL THAT’S REAPING REWARDS

Above from left Cold morning shiraz pick, new barrel for shiraz, shiraz on the vine.

rankland River as a region has fruit the time needed to ripen well but different bunch characteristics not only in building different dimensions into our shiraz established a great name for slowly. Combined with the cooler aspect appearance but in taste and texture. Seen as a wines. provides texture and softness F producing top shiraz for a number of the southern part of the Frankland River chance to trial some new material in the aim to shiraz, a delicious moreishness and of years. Planted as early as the late 1960’s, region, we are achieving fresher, crunchier of providing greater complexity, the new shiraz aromatic lift with the smallest of additions. shiraz has established itself as a benchmark and brighter wines. clones 174 and 470 are from the heart of the After many trials it is common place for variety in the region. Rhône Valley and whilst exerting all the viognier to be added to select ferments of MINIMAL INTERVENTION quintessential classic shiraz characteristic they shiraz the day of harvest at about 5% which Through the early 2000’s Frankland Estate IN THE WINERY set about redefining shiraz from the region. can vary in flavour very subtly and provide after blending with different ferments A number of changes were implemented In the winery there has also been some an extra dimension to our final shiraz wines. makes up around 2% of the final wines. with the aim of highlighting the uniqueness evolving calculated changes, brought about INNOVATIONS WITH Touriga nacional, has recently been planted of this part of the world and putting our by improved quality through organic in the Isolation Ridge Vineyard. The first cool climate and elegant style on the production and advancing vine age. In essence After a visit to the Rhône Valley in 2004 a vintage in 2018 was a truly exciting success international map. these hark back to the ongoing belief that decision was made to work with large format and we have made a single varietal wine. great wines are made in the vineyard. French oak barrels, the 300 litre hogshead We have also used it in the Frankland Estate ATTENTION TO DETAIL barrels traded in for 500 litre Puncheons. The quality of fruit stipulates the Shiraz wine, in only a very small percentage However continual refinement of the way When a family have been dedicated and intervention needed on the wine making and will continue to refine and use it more we use the French oak has also been focused to one site for 30 years with the front when talking wine making techniques, in our premium shiraz blends into the future. important to allow the subtlety of ironstone combined family experience of 120 , as the adage of “less is more” comes into to be revealed. For the 2018 vintage a WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS the level of refinement and evolution is full swing. Gentle fermentations to 3,500 litre French oak foudre was purchased bound to pay dividends. This kind of minimise tannin extraction have been an We will continue to evolve the style of our and this has been truly exciting evolution as viticultural intimacy, required to make truly ongoing goal to increase textural delicacy, shiraz, with a combination of new clones, the wine can now rest on its lees providing great wine, is the sort that can be seen in a trait seen in the very best examples of fine new varietals, and the gentle evolution of an unmatched elegance and poise to the our team at Frankland Estate. Our daily shiraz. Smaller ferments, or rather shallower wine making techniques. This will support wine. With another foudre purchased for routines in the vineyard and winery show ferments aid in gentle extraction at lower the benefits of an increasing vine age and the 2019 harvest, drinkers of Isolation Ridge great thoughtfulness and minute attention temperatures providing finer tannins. enhance our shiraz wines, providing a very to detail. This level of fine tuning and Shiraz will see the results of some of these exciting foundation for the future. With better health and balance in the knowledge only comes from living and subtle and exciting changes. vineyard we have also seen more even breathing the vineyard life we live. and slower ripening. Hand harvesting of BLENDING VARIETIES IN SHIRAZ ORGANIC bunches that have seen full lignification, On top of the new shiraz clones we have PAYS DIVIDENDS or “yellowing” of stems, provide the also experimented with a range of grape SHIRAZ CELLAR team with the ability to utilise varieties over the years, such as mourvédre, We strongly believe that the second generation RELEASE PACK whole bunch fermentation. This is done viognier and touriga nacional. Our ideas of Frankland Estate, through Elizabeth, with small select parcels and the results are have come from our global travels and Brian and Hunter are certainly taking the compelling, giving some parcels an added uncompromising dedication to drinking as Three truly great vintages of Frankland wines to new heights. It also seems that degree of freshness and crunchy fruit tones. many truly fine shiraz wines as we possibly Estate Isolation Ridge Vineyard Shiraz calculated foresight in our family’s viticultural This brightness and tannin structure (a faint can from all over the world. It is a tough job in one neat pack delivered to your door. approach has catapulted the current release stemmy “ash” characteristic) can then be - but someone has to do it. A great way to see how these wines age shiraz to new levels. The super-premium beautifully interwoven into the remaining and evolve in the bottle. quality we are now tasting in our shiraz is shiraz wines; the blends resulting in far Mourvédre was considered for its ability due not only to organic viticulture, which greater complexity. to have complexity of savoury notes and 2017 ISOLATION RIDGE began back in 2005 with certification in incredible intensity of flavour without 4 x VINEYARD SHIRAZ 2009 onwards, but also this forward- NEW SHIRAZ CLONES taking on a big demeanour. Mourvedre 2016 ISOLATION RIDGE will provide an exciting point of complexity 4 x thinking approach to the style of wines. New clones have increasingly become a VINEYARD SHIRAZ for us to consider in blending the final wine Organic viticulture was one element which topic of conversation amongst the vineyard 2013 ISOLATION RIDGE for Isolation Ridge Shiraz and Frankland came out of a desire for healthier, happier and wine boffins. Frankland Estate has very 4 x VINEYARD SHIRAZ Estate Shiraz. and stronger vines. With this a lift in yields much taken this up and included two new See order form for details. has eventuated (albeit very modest) clones of shiraz in our Isolation Ridge Viognier was planted again in the Isolation resulting in some longer hang times, giving Vineyard. These clones provide some slightly Ridge Vineyard in 1998 with the aim of The Journal of Frankland Estate

JOIN THE ISOLATION WINE CLUB Insider parcels, undiscovered by most Want to ensure that you don’t miss out on your favourite Frankland Estate Wines? Join our wine club and be in the know.

A win like the Royal Melbourne Wine Show Trevor As an “Isolation Wine Club” member there’s a raft Mast Trophy for the ‘Best Australian Shiraz in Show’ of benefits: continues to put Frankland Estate in the spotlight. • Exclusive access to small parcel releases The result is that our small parcel wines are selling out quicker than ever, especially our prized Olmo’s • Free shipping Reward, SmithCullam releases and the odd very small • Discounts off additional purchases batch experimental wines. As a Wine Club member • Opportunity to purchase museum releases and you will be given early access to these wines. current wines prior to wider release Whether you’re looking for the iconic releases, or • No joining fee or cancellation fees. Select wines to something to just sit back and savour with friends, suit your taste and budget. We’ll deliver direct to there’s an option for everyone. your door and only process payments at the time of dispatch Vol: 11, 2019 7

SOLITUDE FRANKOPHILE SECLUDED ESCAPE AMONGST (SUBSCRIBER ONLY) ORIGINS FRIENDS

Stay connected with Frankland A first step onto our unsealed Far removed from the everyday; Not for everyone; experience Estate and receive a discount ironstone road. gain access to our special what others can only imagine. on every direct sale of releases. With limited places available, this 12 bottles or more. membership is for those seeking rare wines and exclusive experiences with like-minded individuals. Solitude Amongst Friends membership rewards our most committed members with access to limited and rare releases, priority booking for the Flowering Of The Vines and other events, 25% discount and three dozen bottles delivered to your door annually.

No commitment Commitment Commitment Commitment 2 x dozen bottles per year delivered 2 x dozen bottles per year delivered 3 x dozen bottles per year delivered to your door. to your door. to your door. Your wine will be delivered in February Your wine will be delivered in February Your wine will be delivered in February, and June each year. and June each year. June and October. 20 x Estate wines, 20 x Single Vineyard wines, 30 x Single Vineyard wines, 4 x Single Vineyard wines. 4 x Special Release wines 6 x Special Release wines including Olmo’s & Smith Cullam. including Olmo’s & Smith Cullam.

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10% off on purchases of 12 or more 15% off on all wines with no limit 20% off on all wines with no limit 25% off on all wines with no limit bottles with no limit Newsletters and club communications, Newsletters and club communications, Newsletters and club communications, Newsletters and club communications, Entwined Online Entwined Online Entwined Online Entwined Online Flexible wine selection for your Flexible wine selection for your Flexible wine selection for your deliveries* deliveries* deliveries*

Free delivery on orders over $200 Free delivery on orders over $200 Free delivery on orders over $200 You can change your order, skip a You can change your order, skip a You can change your order, skip a delivery or put your membership on delivery or put your membership on delivery or put your membership on hold at any time hold at any time hold at any time Access to exclusive events at some of Priority booking to Frankland Estate Priority booking to Frankland Estate Australia’s best restaurants & our winery events events including the annual Flowering Of The Vines event Annual hardcopy Entwined Journal Annual hardcopy Entwined Journal Access to our most exclusive wines, Exclusive access to Museum, cellar new & Museum releases release and large format wines (highly collectable) An annual offer to join the Frankland Estate Team at our working lunch, and winery experience.# *Choose any wine. Purchases must meet minimum Single Vineyard requirements #Advanced Booking Required The Journal of Frankland Estate

DISCOVER SOMETHING DIFFERENT BE QUICK TO TRY OUR NEW AND EXCITING VARIETALS

HE WORLD OF WINE MOURVÉDRE TOURIGA NACIONAL CONTINUES TO EVOLVE Back in 2005 discussions with close friend Touriga nacional is a Portuguese varietal RAPIDLY. Consumer’s are seeking T and viticulturalist John Brocksopp got us from Portugal's northern Dao and Douro different beverage options and winemakers thinking seriously about mourvèdre. We wine regions. It is dark-skinned grape have to keep pace and adapt to both a embraced the opportunity to plant some, variety that has traditionally been a key changing climate and evolving tastes. as we believe it has great potential as a component of fortified ports but is now We’re seeing that even the more regulated blending partner with shiraz to build becoming very fashionable as a dry table and traditional regions like Bordeaux are complexity and diversity. Mourvèdre is wine - some believing it creates the finest allowing new varietals to be included in grown in many regions around the world, dry red wines in Portugal. Following the their appellations, reflecting a growing perhaps most famously in the Rhône and proliferation of aromatic dry styles noted awareness that they need to adapt to survive. regions of France as well as the by Hunter during numerous European trips, As a small, nimble and dynamic winery we Valencia and Jumilla regions of Spain. it was decided to plant of touriga nacional can be open minded about what shapes our Normally a perfect blending partner with at Frankland Estate. Interestingly, this future, and the opportunities are plentiful. , mourvèdre can often have wild game variety is one of the newly allowed grape We’re constantly searching for new varietals or earthy qualities with healthy amounts varietals soon to be grown in Bordeaux. and interesting clones that we can utilise in of natural tannin. Again, the excellent growing conditions our wines, either as a blending option or as Our mourvèdre was planted in 2005 from in 2018 produced our first straight touriga a small-parcel release. cuttings sourced by John Brocksopp. Now nacional wine. The resulting wine has 14 years of age and farmed organically for aromas of violets and bittersweet cocoa, most of its life, the wines have started to with flavours of soft generous blueberry, Looking to taste show their true potential. Our medium plum, blackberry and fine velvet tannins. weighted mourvèdre with earthy aromatics The wine has elegance and balance. We are something a little and delicate tannin grip offers beautiful very pleased to see it has already received different? Here’s a complexity to blend with shiraz or when some good reviews. released as a single varietal. few different styles ...... 95 points Gold Medal, Wine Show and varietals to add of Western Australia, 2019 to your cellar. 94 points James Suckling, June 2019 ...... “There’s some real complexity, in the spice zone, where aromas range from oregano and nutmeg, to juniper berries and spearmint. Then comes the overlay of brambleberries and dark cherries with some dark chocolate. Tobacco leaves, too. Full-bodied and juicy, but quite structured and savory on the palate. From organically grown . Drink now and enjoy.” Nick Stock, James Suckling, June 2019

2018 MOURVÈDRE 2018 was a great year for the later ripening red wines in the Frankland River region as both dry conditions and mild temperatures allowed for good maturation on the vine. In 2018 we felt our Mourvèdre was too good to blend and has been released under our experimental range. RRP $32. Vol: 11, 2019 9

WHO’S POURING?

MARSANNE ALTER WEG RIESLING Marsanne is the most popular This wine perhaps needs less introduction grape planted in the Northern Rhône and as a variety is nothing new to Frankland wine region, particularly on the famous Estate, but it’s a different style of riesling that hill of Hermitage. It is best known in a some may not have discovered. The Alter textural white blend with roussanne and Weg (translated to mean the “old path”) is at viognier. Marsanne generally adds depth the forefront of our ongoing exploration of MADALENA’S BAR and a richness of texture with flavours both viticultural and winemaking evolution and scents of roasted nuts, honeydew as well as experimentations with this variety. - JOEL REES melon, pears, white peaches, baking "Made by exploratory viticulture and spices and white flowers. winemaking processes including barrel Madalena’s Bar has very quickly become the darling of the beaches Marsanne was also planted in the Isolation fermentation and maturation in oak for in Perth, with a waiting list for bookings most days. Owners Joel Ridge Vineyard in 1998. While only 0.3 11 months - an approach borrowed from Rees and wife Dani modelled the bar after the places they loved hectares was planted, this trial planting Germany. It has certainly added layer upon during their time in Brazil. Riesling and seafood is without doubt remains and increasingly we have seen layer of richness, but with an assured hand. one of the great food and wine matches, and Madalena’s takes merit in making a very small parcel as a There is no phenolic kickback, all as the bright it to another level. single varietal along with blending small straw-green hue alluded to as when you picked Chef Adam Rees (Joel’s brother) brings a different perspective to amounts into our shiraz and viognier to up the glass the first time." seafood at Madalena’s Bar, which mirrors our own alternate take at give added aromatics. James Halliday, Frankland Estate over the past few years and results in an exciting As the vines have aged, we are seeing great 2020 Australian Wine Companion food match with our Alter Weg Riesling. rewards with the fruit slowly expressing ...... Owner Joel Rees pairs Alter Weg Riesling with fresh Albany more of its varietal flavour. Our patience 96 points The Wine Front, Mike Bennie sardines and has been kind enough to share the recipe. Matching has paid off. The 2018 vintage is shy at 95 points James Suckling to the slightly generous and textural nature of the Alter Weg, it first but with a little time opens up jamessuckling.com plays spectacularly well with the oily rich flavours of fresh sardines. beautifully. Almonds and nutty Persian spice mix with melons, peach and apricot 95 points James Halliday kernel. Soft and lively upfront, the acid 2020 Australian Wine Companion races across the palate giving the wine ...... focus and length showing almonds, nectarines, apricot flavours and a mealy texture. It is a perfect match with blue swimmer crab for Boxing Day lunch.

ALBANY SARDINES WITH PARSLEY SAUCE AND CAPERBERRIES

Ingredients (serves 2) Parsley sauce 300g Extra Virgin Olive Oil 375g parsley 450g blended oil 150g caperberries Salt flakes DISCOVERY PACK 30g garlic Lemon juice Intrigued about these different wines styles? We’ve made it 6g lemon zest Freshly caught easy for you to sample with this Wine Adventurers dozen - 75g caper berry juice Albany sardines your chance to try something new with friends and save some for yourself! Selection includes: Method 3 x 2018 Alter Weg Riesling Scaled, gut, remove spines of sardines and cook on charcoal for 3 x 2018 Marsanne 4 - 6 minutes. Put all other ingredients into a blender and pulse to 3 x 2018 Touriga Nacional a chunky texture and not too smooth. Smear this sauce on a plate 3 x 2018 Mourvèdre and place sardines on top. Season with flake salt and lemon juice. To read more and order online, visit franklandestate.com.au The Journal of Frankland Estate

OLMO’S REWARD OUR NOD TO THE PROFESSOR OF VITICULTURE WHO DISCOVERED OUR REGION

OR MOST OF YOU READING ENTWINED, the South Western tip of Western Australia is hardly F uncharted territory for producing great , perhaps best known for those reds containing . Head a little inland to the Frankland River region and further south than the well- known Margaret River and you will find Cabernet wines in a slightly different style. Much of this is due to the pioneering work of the legendary Dr Harold Olmo. DR HAROLD OLMO The soil composition Dr. Harold Olmo was a pioneering viticulturist and professor at the University and climate of the of California, Davis and is credited with Frankland River region ‘discovering’ the Frankland River region while he was in Western Australia assisting led Harold Olmo the agricultural department with viticulture in the Swan Valley, just north of Perth. to make immediate The Frankland River itself runs all the way comparisons with down to the Southern Ocean, which serves to moderate the climate year-round. The the famed Bordeaux soil composition and climate of the region of France. Frankland River region led Harold Olmo to make immediate comparisons with the famed Bordeaux region of France. Frankland River experiences dry warm days and Barrie Smith showed in first planting assisted by very cold nights, which lend Frankland Estate back in 1988 and particularly themselves to great Cabernet wines, . They were spot on! including cabernet franc. Whilst very little cabernet franc is grown in Australia (0.4% Cabernet franc is without doubt heading of total red varietals plantings) compared to on a greater path of awareness and greatness cabernet sauvignon (28% of red wine in Australia. Globally cabernet franc plantings), today it makes up the majority of commands a cult following in the obvious Olmo’s Reward. It makes sense given that examples such as Cheval Blanc in Bordeaux Frankland River is that bit cooler than many but increasingly cabernet franc is seen of Western Australia’s regions. It’s also a as a wine that is grown in more emerging great validation of the vision that Judi Cullam and diverse regions, such as the and Northern Italy. Cabernet franc is

The world is our wine oyster!! Frankland Estate has What might surprise a lot of people is that China FRANKLAND ESTATE a strong export focus and is proud to export at least actually has more vineyards than Australian and is now TAKES ON THE WORLD half of our total wine production to over 20 overseas the 4th largest producer of wine in the world. They are countries. Many of these markets are small and needless a relative new comer to wine production, so they still HUNTER SMITH HEADS TO PROWEIN to say we focus on the very fine wine, premium avenues have more learning and experience to achieve an increase IN SHANGHAI AS EXPORTS TO CHINA within these countries to ensure that our wines end in their overall wine quality. Chinese wine consumers are INCREASE up on the tables of the most discerning of restaurants increasingly demanding high quality wines as their level and wine lists. of knowledge and taste for fine wine increases. As you might have read in the press though, there’s Despite our remote location, the importance of the a renewed focus on building the brand of Australian Chinese market has not been lost on us. In fact, we have wines in China. China is now Australia’s largest trading been working diligently to understand the huge logistical partner for all exports, so not surprisingly it has also and cultural complexity of the Chinese market. Hunter become the number one wine export market, overtaking will be spending four full days at Prowein Shanghai the traditional markets in the United States and United 11-15 November 2019 with our importers to fly the Kingdom both by volume and total value. In the Frankland Estate flag. We look forward to sharing some 12 months to September 2019, wine exports reached photos with you on our social media channels – stay a record value of A$1.25 billion, an annual increase of 18 percent*. Australia is also the number one exporter tuned as Frankland Estate takes on the world! by value, overtaking France and Italy in the past year. The appetite for Australian has never been stronger and our distinctive regional style from Frankland River is gathering momentum. *Source: Wine Australia wineaustralia.com.au October 2019 Vol: 11, 2019 11

NEW RELEASES

2018 ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2018 is sure to be a much-acclaimed vintage as the wines start to see the light of day post the nineteen or so months of being tended to in the winery and cellars. The 2018 Frankland Estate Cabernet Sauvignon is the first of these generally considered paler, lighter, and One of our favourite quotes about Olmo’s fine red wines to hit the street from this fine vintage. The fresher along with being softer and more Reward is from Ian Cauble MS: combination of elegance and bright berry fruits is aromatic than that of cabernet sauvignon “And yet, in the end, this wine veers away intermingled beautifully with classic Cabernet (Robinson J, 2012). These attributes make from Bordeaux—albeit in an appealing concentration. No doubt another step up from our it the ideal wine stylistically to be making and slightly wild way. highly acclaimed 2017 vintage. a comeback as consumers look for more “A medium to full-bodied cabernet that speaks equally modest weight in wine as they seek food In the glass, it’s a deep, not-quite-opaque clearly of its place and its varietal birthright, which friendly pairings. Great cabernet franc will ruby-black with crimson/garnet highlights, with seductive aromas of ripe blackberry, I believe to be the estate's Isolation Ridge Vineyard (the also express great length and extraordinary back label is silent on this matter). Blackcurrant is the complexity of flavour. cassis, black currant, mint/eucalyptus, ground coffee, black pepper, and raw cacao. It is at dominant flavour, assisted by notes of black olive and bay leaf, the tannins firm but ripe, the oak merely a vehicle.” OLMO’S REWARD once burly and luscious, and most 95 Points, James Halliday’s Wine Companion 2020 Olmo’s Reward wines today are very much importantly, powerful without being a nod to the original vision Judi and Barrie overpowering, thanks to well-preserved 2018 ESTATE had. Their vision for more elegant and food acidity. The wide diurnal temperature A wet and cold winter in 2017 lead to cool and typically friendly styles was very much ahead of the variations in the Frankland Valley allow for slower, more balanced ripening, enabling dry conditions from November right through to harvest. curve at a time when many wine consumers The cooler summer meant harvest was delayed by up went in search of power and richness in this wine to avoid a ‘syrupy’ fate; in fact, I think it’s got the structure for 10+ years to two weeks. These conditions were perfect for whites, wines. Today, as we know, this has turned making for an outstanding harvest for chardonnay. full circle and wines with restraint and of aging if you can keep your hands off a greater sense of place are increasingly it, which will not be easy to do. With 30 The chardonnay comes from the 100% organically grown Isolation Ridge Vineyard. Lifted blossom florals and white celebrated and enjoyed. minutes in a decanter this is a plump and delicious red to enjoy now at 60 degrees stone fruit. Lovely minerality. The palate has generosity on Historically, Olmo’s Reward was strongly celsius in large Bordeaux stems, and will the front palate, well integrated oak that leads into an elegant influenced by Judi and Barrie’s time in likely be the first wine I reach for at the first soft and focused palate. There is a complex textured Bordeaux. Today the wine does give a brief sign of cold weather this fall.” component which plays beautifully with the acid to create nod to the great wines made in the Right a delightful and charming chardonnay. The 2017 Olmo’s Reward (like the 2017 Bank of Bordeaux, although Olmo’s Reward These new release wines are now available for purchase. is now mapping its own intriguing course, Isolation Ridge Vineyard Shiraz) is a reflecting the uniqueness of location, reflection of the great vintage, well defined climate and soil in the Isolation Ridge with clear fruit aromas of cedar and plum. Vineyard. The wine has certainly grown In the background there is also crushed MAGNUM FOR in depth and complexity with vine age raspberry and even a touch of violet and as we combine our 30 years of experience dusty complexity. Cabernet franc remains CHRISTMAS LUNCH growing cabernet franc. This simply cannot the majority of the blend (69%) with small be substituted. additions of , cabernet sauvignon LIMITED RELEASE 2005 ISOLATION RIDGE and . The obvious balance, freshness CABERNET SAUVIGNON MAGNUM and poise of the 2017 will reward aging and 2005 was one of the most popular cabernet sauvignons we are confident it will be one of the great released for Frankland Estate with great intensity and lovely Olmo’s Rewards. plush fruits it was always going to age well. A very small number of magnums were made and are now available to members of our wine club! See page 7 for details.

HAVE YOU BEEN TO PRINCE WINE STORE? GREAT FINE WINE APLENTY

The Prince Wine Store is one of Australia’s great independent retailers and always a must stop destination when we have new releases under our arm running around Melbourne and Sydney. As with all great retailers they take their customers on a journey of discovery through the world of wine. The Prince runs education courses for anyone that wants to learn more about the history of winemaking, great wine regions of the world or buying and storing of wine. In Melbourne, Bellota Kitchen is right next door, with head Chef Nikki Riemer matching small courses and bites with the wine as you learn. It’s a wine lovers dream! Prince Wine Stores are located in Zetland, Sydney and Bank Street, South Melbourne. For great wines pop in and tell them you’re a Frankophile! The Journal of Frankland Estate

Plaudits from the Pundits READ OUR LATEST REVIEWS

2017 FRANKLAND ESTATE 2017 FRANKLAND ESTATE SHIRAZ 2018 FRANKLAND ESTATE OLMO’S REWARD “A peppery shiraz with plenty of dried meat, TOURIGA NACIONAL DECANTER WORLD Named after Dr Harold Olmo, who first brambleberries and fresh herbs. Dried yet “There’s some real complexity, in the spice WINE AWARDS 2019 identified the viticultural potential of the vibrant red fruit is bolstered by chewy zone, where aromas range from oregano Frankland River Region, ‘Olmo’s Reward’ tannins and bright acidity sends this long. and nutmeg, to juniper berries and is Frankland Estate’s flagship red wine. Drink now or hold.” spearmint. Then comes the overlay of 2017 OLMOS REWARD 93 points James Suckling Aristotle’s famous quote, “the whole is brambleberries and dark cherries with 97 Points & Gold Medal greater than the sum of the parts,” applies some dark chocolate. Tobacco leaves, too. to this wine, which is a refined and complex 2017 FRANKLAND ESTATE Full-bodied and juicy, but quite structured 2018 ESTATE RIESLING red blend comprising Cabernet Franc, with CABERNET SAUVIGNON and savory on the palate. From organically 95 Points & Gold Medal smaller amounts of Merlot, Malbec, “A medium to full-bodied cabernet that grown grapes. Drink now and enjoy.” Cabernet Sauvignon and . speaks equally clearly of its place and its James Suckling 2019 2016 ISOLATION RIDGE 96 points Decanter World Wine Awards varietal birthright, which I believe to be the 95 Points & Gold Medal SHIRAZ May 2017 estate's Isolation Ridge Vineyard (the back Wine Show of Western Australia, 2019 91 Points & Silver Medal label is silent on this matter). Blackcurrant 96 points James Halliday, 94 Points James Suckling, June 2019 2020 Australian Wine Companion is the dominant flavour, assisted by notes of black olive and bay leaf, the tannins firm JAMES SUCKLING 2017 ISOLATION RIDGE but ripe, the oak merely a vehicle.” VINEYARD SHIRAZ James Halliday, June 2019 “Riesling and shiraz from Great Southern, 95 points James Halliday, in particular Frankland River, are also very Matt Harrop, Chair of Judges at the Royal 2020 Australian Wine Companion exciting this year. The best are wines of Melbourne Wine Awards, said: “It’s subtlety and finesse with lots of character beautifully fragrant with a poised palate – 92 points & Top 100 Wines and structure that are reminiscent of the spicy, intriguing and just so lovely. That wine Ray Jordan, Western Australian, July 2019 best of France, but with Aussie purity.” is the complete package.” James Suckling, jamessuckling.com, Trophy Best Organic/Biodynamic Wine June 2019 Trophy Best Western Australian Shiraz MAX ALLEN Trevor Mast Trophy Best Shiraz of Show, 'The 2018 Isolation Ridge Riesling Royal Melbourne Wine Show, 2019 is stunningly pure and aromatic' Max Allen, May 2019

VISIT THE FRANKLAND ESTATE CELLAR DOOR

Regular visitors to Frankland Estate have seen in the past The perfect way to explore Frankland Estate from afar. Take 12 months small yet continual changes to our cellar door. a virtual tour of why it’s worth taking a trip on our website. From very modest beginnings, being a slab of jarrah VISITORS WELCOME stretched over a couple of barrels in a corner of the winery, Readers of Entwined are always welcome at Frankland the cellar door now boasts an impressive view out over the Estate. Because our cellar door is conveniently located vines. Still extremely humble and part of the functioning in the middle of nowhere we like to recommend you ring winery itself, our cellar door allows visitors a great place in advance to let us know of your visit. This will enable us to book a formal tasting visit amongst the barrels. to have someone on hand to assist you sample or purchase Barrie continues to muse that tourism has climbed our wines and, if you are well behaved, perhaps even show to an all-time high prompting these humble changes, when you a few ‘special’ wines from back vintages or from one last year the cellar door received two visitor in the one day! of our many ‘experiments’. The winery is located on the As much as we encourage you to visit we realise this is western side of the Rocky Gully-Frankland Road some no easy feat for many Entwined readers. Easier perhaps 4.5km north of Rocky Gully and 14km south of Frankland. is signing up to our Isolation Wine Club.

FRANKLAND ESTATE WINES PTY LTD 530 Frankland Road Frankland River Western Australia 6396 T +61 8 9855 1544 E [email protected]

Visit us at franklandestate.com.au or our cellar door franklandestate @FranklandEstate