Brash Higgins Cabernet Franc 2023

Cabernet Franc isn’t common in the Vale, but maybe it should be—especially when it turns out like this. The 2023 FRNC is a fragrant, finely structured expression that’s all about lift, elegance, and herbal complexity.

Sourced from vines planted in 1988 on the black clay soils of McLaren Flat, the fruit was wild fermented in open fermenters with a 5-week maceration, then aged for 15 months in seasoned French hogsheads. The result? A wine that’s beautifully perfumed and taut, without a trace of excess.

Violets, alpine herbs, and roasted capsicum lead the aromatic charge, while the palate brings red plum, graphite, and an earthy edge. There’s a quiet confidence here—nothing showy, just pure varietal clarity and poise. A fantastic food wine and a refreshing change of pace for Cab lovers.