Cabernet Franc, Loire Valley, France

It’s no secret that we’re card-carrying members of the Cab Franc Fan Club and if you’re not with us, then grab a pen & paper because you’re about to join! From Domaine Bobinet, an 8th generation producer in our all-time favourite region, the Loire Valley. Hanami is truly a Cab Franc for all seasons, aged in barrel for four months with partial carbonic maceration for extra juicy oomph – fragrant, floral & a touch meaty all at once. Like any all-star in the over-achiever department, this wine shows best when it chills down a touch but stays al dente with some texture & crunch to bite into. Because for all its complexity, it is first and foremost, a thirst-quenching vin de soif that you could truly drink whenever – think poop-ery (a particular mix of stables and potpourri), cherry pastile, Japanese red plum, green peppercorn, sweet green pepper & a scoop of Earth from the centre of a deep woods, with supple, ripe tannins. If you pull this out at a party, don’t be surprised to hear a satisfied round of yums for being basically perfect.