Babich Irongate Hawke's Bay Cabernet Merlot Franc 2017

Babich Irongate Hawke's Bay Cabernet Merlot Franc 2017French oak Red cherry Vanilla Medium bodied "Made with cabernets sauvignon and franc with merlot showcasing aromas of fresh black fruits and tobacco, cigar box, graphite and plum. Other aromas include dried roses and iodine, black olive and baking spice. Fabulous on the palate reflecting both varieties and place with flavours of dark berries and floral non fruit attributes as well as a stony rocky mineral quality. Firm tannins and acidity suggest more

• French oak
• Red cherry
• Vanilla
• Medium-bodied

"Made with cabernets sauvignon and franc with merlot showcasing aromas of fresh black fruits and tobacco, cigar box, graphite and plum. Other aromas include dried roses and iodine, black olive and baking spice. Fabulous on the palate reflecting both varieties and place with flavours of dark berries and floral non-fruit attributes as well as a stony rocky mineral quality. Firm tannins and acidity suggest more integration time required or decanting if early drinking required. A lengthy dry finish. Best drinking from 2025 through 2035" Cameron Douglas MS, Mar 2021

Red plums, cassis and boysenberry with a hint of kirsch and vanilla. Entry combines sweet and savoury elements. Red cherries, plum and underlying cedar flavours carry through the palate and linger attractively. Medium weighted and elegant.

We have been producing Babich Irongate Cabernet Merlot Franc since 1986 and it has evolved into this richly flavoured, balanced and elegant wine. The vines from this now-famous Gimblett Gravels Irongate vineyard are selected at pruning, and crop levels are closely monitored to ensure excellent flavour concentration in the grapes.

Food Pairing: This wine is a brilliant match for red meats, game and pasta dishes. A perfect partner for casseroled lamb shanks or with scotch fillet, roasted rare.