The 2016 Falstaff is the Cabernet Franc blend of the estate (there’s 37% Cabernet Sauvignon) that was sourced primarily from the Oakville appellation. Ripe black cherries, currants, scorched earth, chocolate, and a flowery, forest floor-like character all emerge from this powerful, concentrated, structured Cabernet Franc. It doesn’t have the sexiness of the To Kolan Cabernet Franc release, yet it’s classic Cabernet Franc all the way and offers sensational purity of fruit. Hide this for 3-4 years and enjoy over the following two decades.

Blended of 63% Cabernet Franc and 37% Cabernet Sauvignon from the To Kalon vineyard, the very deep garnet-purple colored 2016 The Falstaff is a little closed to begin, opening up to reveal red and black currants, blackberries and black cherries with floral wafts of roses and lilacs plus earthy hints of truffles, fertile loam and mossy bark. The palate is full-bodied, very firm and grainy with wonderful freshness and depth given by red fruit and mineral sparks, finishing long. This should age amazingly.

Falstaff is Realm’s Cabernet Franc-based blend, usually around 60-80%, with the remainder being Cabernet Sauvignon. This is the most earth-driven and savoury of the lineup, showing a nose of iron, iodine, potting soil and dark fruits. The texture is plush and silky, with an almost hollow quality I found hard to put into words but very much enjoyed. It has a sturdy but restrained tannin structure that sneaks up on the dusty finish. 400 cases made.