Lake's Folly 2022 Cabernets: A New Expression of a Hunter Valley Classic

Lake’s Folly 2022 Cabernets: A New Expression of a Hunter Valley Classic

Lake’s Folly has long been a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the Hunter Valley, and their 2022 Cabernets continues this tradition with a unique twist. Known for producing exceptional wines with longevity and character, Lake’s Folly has crafted a Cabernet blend that, for the 2022 vintage, diverges from the norm by omitting its typical Cabernet Sauvignon component. The result is a wine that still embodies the rich history and quality of Lake’s Folly but with a fresh perspective.

A Unique Blend: Cabernet Reimagined

The 2022 vintage of Lake’s Folly Cabernets is an intriguing blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Shiraz—grapes that are estate-grown, hand-picked, and carefully selected to create a wine of distinction. While Cabernet Sauvignon has traditionally been the backbone of this blend, its absence in the 2022 vintage allows the other varietals to shine, offering a new dimension to this classic wine.

The Merlot provides the wine with softness and roundness, while Petit Verdot contributes depth and colour. Shiraz, though a less common component in Cabernet blends, adds a touch of spice and vibrancy. Together, these varietals create a harmonious blend that is both rich and balanced, showcasing the best qualities of each grape.

Winemaking: A Balance of Tradition and Innovation

At Lake’s Folly, winemaking is both an art and a science, and the process for the 2022 Cabernets reflects this philosophy. The fruit is hand-picked from low-yielding vines, ensuring that only the best grapes make it into the wine. The grapes are then open-fermented, a traditional method that allows for softer, more subtle tannins, enhancing the wine’s approachability while maintaining its structure.

After fermentation, the wine is transferred to large old casks for six months, allowing it to settle and develop complexity. It is then aged in small French oak barriques—both new and seasoned—for approximately one year. This oak aging imparts delicate notes of cedar and spice, complementing the vibrant fruit flavours without overpowering them.

The result is a wine with excellent long-term cellaring potential, capable of evolving over 10 to 20 years, depending on the vintage.

Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavours and Textures

The Lake’s Folly 2022 Cabernets is a wine that impresses from the first pour. In the glass, it presents a deep, vibrant red, hinting at the richness within. On the nose, bright, lifted aromas of mulberries dominate, with subtle hints of cedary oak adding complexity.

On the palate, the wine is clean and vibrant, with generous fruit flavours that mirror the nose. Mulberries again take centre stage, creating a luscious and rich mouthfeel. The wine is beautifully balanced, with the supporting French oak providing structure and a fine-grained tannin profile that enhances the wine’s overall elegance.

Despite the absence of Cabernet Sauvignon, the wine does not lack depth or complexity. Instead, it offers a different perspective on what a Hunter Valley Cabernet blend can be—equally enjoyable as a young wine but with the potential to develop further complexity with age.

Food Pairing: Enhancing the Experience

The 2022 Cabernets is a versatile wine that pairs well with a range of dishes, making it an excellent choice for both casual and fine dining. Its rich fruit flavours and balanced tannins make it an ideal match for red meats, particularly lamb or beef. The wine’s vibrancy and subtle spice also complement dishes with a touch of sweetness or umami, such as a slow-cooked beef stew or a mushroom risotto.

For a more refined pairing, consider serving this wine with a roast duck or venison, where the wine’s richness can enhance the meat’s flavour. The wine’s acidity and structure also make it a great companion for hard cheeses, particularly aged cheddar or Gouda.

Aging Potential: Built for the Long Haul

One of the hallmarks of Lake’s Folly wines is their ability to age gracefully, and the 2022 Cabernets is no exception. While the wine is already showing beautifully in its youth, with vibrant fruit and well-integrated tannins, it is also a wine that will reward patience.

With proper cellaring, this wine has the potential to develop further complexity over the next 10 to 20 years. As it ages, expect the fruit to soften and the tannins to become even more refined, revealing additional layers of flavour, including earthy and savoury notes that are characteristic of well-aged Hunter Valley reds.

A New Chapter in a Storied History

The Lake’s Folly 2022 Cabernets is a wine that both honours tradition and embraces innovation. By crafting a Cabernet blend without its usual Cabernet Sauvignon component, Lake’s Folly has created a wine that is both familiar and refreshingly different. It is a wine that informs, educates, and entertains the palate, offering a new take on a Hunter Valley classic.

Whether enjoyed now or laid down for future enjoyment, the 2022 Cabernets is a wine that will not only enhance your dining experiences but also provide years of pleasure as it matures and evolves in the cellar. For those who appreciate fine wine and the art of winemaking, this is a wine that deserves a place in your collection.