Frank Family Patriarch Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Patriarch needs a little coaxing to reveal slowly unfurling scents of blackcurrant pastilles, Morello cherries, blueberry compote and raspberry leaves with suggestions of fertile loam, cast-iron pan, violets and chocolate box plus a touch of garrigue. Medium to full-bodied, the palate is taut and muscular, quivering with latent energy at this youthful stage, framed by firm, ripe, grainy tannins and bold freshness, finishing long with a whole array of mineral, black fruit and floral fireworks. It will require a good 5 more years in bottle and should cellar for a further 30 years+.

95 Points - Wine Spectator

This is a brick house, with a well-structured feel throughout that matches well with the dense core of blackberry and black currant preserves. Racy, thanks to a bolt of cast iron, and with ample range from the tobacco, apple wood and violet notes. Rock-solid. Best from 2025 through 2038.