2020 Icon Wine of the Year

For 2020 we anoint our first Cabernet Franc as the winner of the Icon Wine of the Year award. Honorable mentions go to Viñedos Emiliana 2017 Coyam and Rust Wine Co. 2017 Syrah for placing in our top 3.

2020 Icon Wine of the Year

Cassini Cellars 2016 Collector's Series Cabernet Franc
95% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot
$40 - 15.1%
93pts

Cassini Cellars makes a number of wonderful, 'big, full-bodied reds from memorable Merlots to award-winning blends. Yet, the true star of the portfolio is this consistently exquisite, single-vineyard Cabernet Franc. The depth of flavour and refinement speaks to the vineyard practices and the spare-no-expense barrel program Cassini employs to near-perfection. 

Its trademark menthol and eucalyptus aromas and flavours are on show, in spades, supported by a plethora of blue fruit, toasted oak, spices and savoury notes on the generous, seductive nose and the well-balanced, elegant palate. Ready to go now, with some decanting. Drink 2021-2026.

Full Review



Previous Winners

• 2019 - Little Engine 2017 Gold Series Merlot
• 2018 - Black Hills 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon
• 2017 - Black Hills 2015 Syrah and Painted Rock 2015 Syrah
• 2016 - Cassini Cellars 2013 The Aristocrat
• 2015 - Le Vieux Pin 2012 Équinoxe Syrah
• 2014 - Painted Rock 2012 Red Icon
• 2013 - Stag's Hollow Winery 2010 Cachet No. 03
• 2012 - Painted Rock Estate Winery 2011 Chardonnay
• 2011 - Fairview Cellars 2009 The Wrath
• 2010 - Stratus Vineyards 2007 Red
• 2009 - Blackwood Lane Winery 2006 Alliance