- The aromatics are very powerful on the 2018 Cabernet Franc, as soon as the cork is popped loads of black plum, ripe cherries and vanillin fill the air. In the glass there is freshly ground peppercorns, black currants and coffee grounds. As the wine opens crushed violets and gravel minerality appears. The wine has a nice lushness due to the Merlot addition. There are major amounts of cherry pie and cola as well as vanilla on the palate. The tannins are present and pleasing but softer than in previous years with a long perfumed floral finish.