Review: Squitchy Lane Cabernet Franc 2022

Variations on a theme. A Yarra Cab Franc theme. Just 53 cases produced of this Franc, with all of the fruit from the original Squitchy Block in the Gruyère part of the Yarra. Rare that a single varietal Cab Franc is bottled, apparently, but if this is evidence, I want more. Leafy, black and redcurrant fruit, a little greenery, and lots of bright redcurrant. It’s a bright and joyful red, with these little pips of olive and mint fragrance and life. There’s this just ripe palate lines of acidity and tannins. Class! There’s a bit of coiled energy for the moment – please hold on to some and see what happens, as this has a plus sign for a reason.

THE VERDICT

• Best drinking: good now, likely even better in five more years
• Score (out of 20): 18
• Score (out of 100): 93
• Alcohol %: 13.5
• RRP (in $AUD): 52
• Winery website: https://www.squitchylane.com.au/
• Would I buy it?: sure would