Originally from France, Cabernet Franc has found a second home in Australia, where it thrives in several wine growing regions. Here it produces wines characterised by elegance and complexity. The best areas are Margaret River, Yarra Valley and Coonawarra, where the cool climate and chalky soils give the wine vibrant acidity and distinctive minerality. A fine example is this Francis, Cab Franc offered by Penley Estate. Matured in French oak barrels for 14 months, about 15% of which are new, and in stainless steel for a further 6 months, this Australian red presents itself in the glass with a beautiful, bright red colour. On the nose, raspberry leaf, red liquorice, black cherry, cardamom and pink pepper. A pleasantly floral and crisp bouquet. In the mouth, the tannins are fine and it is easy to find a good correspondence with the previously perceived scents, with a core of red fruits and spices. A versatile wine, it is perfect with meaty first courses, red meat main courses and mature cheeses. For lovers of elegant and complex red wines, this Cabernet Franc is a bottle not to be missed.