Description
Canobolas Wines (formerly Canobolas-Smith) is the third oldest vineyard and one of the most significant producers of premium wine in the Orange region. The vineyard and winery were established by the Smith family in 1985. They chose the site after a lengthy search for an ideal combination of climate, soil and aspect to be able to create great wine. The part of the mountain which we are situated on are the remnants of an extinct volcanic complex which erupted in several phases between 11-13 million years ago, making it a relatively recent geological feature. The basalt rock that was created by the lava flows has broken up over millions of years, forming the deep rich red soils that are excellent for grape growing and wine production. The resulting soils are known as Red Ferrosols (Krasnozems). The blocks have varying composition; our top Chardonnay coming from the deepest red soil, and the best Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc coming from the stoniest part to the vineyard where shards of basalt and small amounts of fine quartz fragments can be found nearer the surface. There is a gradual change across the vineyard slope creating unique pockets of terroir. We keep the parcels separate during fermentation to tease out and discover the expression and diversity of soil within our site. The Mattick family – Jonathon Mattick and wife Limei took ownership of the property in 2021, with the introduction of regenerative farming and organic practices being central to their new philosophy.
About this wine and the 2024 vintage from the winemakers: “The region experienced a quintessential cool climate season, from the lower vineyards around 600m to the higher elevations at 1000m, all varieties ripened beautifully, producing flawless fruit.
“We picked our red varieties in eight batches, each parcel a little riper than the last. The resulting wines are layered with complexity. The Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah are all deeply coloured, showing true ripeness and power. The warmer ripening period, small berries, increased light interception and phenolic development resulted in dense and energetic wines. These are the most complete and complex reds we have produced since taking ownership of the vineyard.”
“A wine that exudes elegance and complexity. On the nose, aromas of ripe dark berries and cherries intertwine with notes of blackcurrant and dark spices. The deep ruby colour of this vintage is a visual delight, hinting at the bold and rich flavours to come. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with velvety tannins and a smooth, lingering finish. The dark fruit flavours are complemented by hints of vanilla, spice, and a subtle earthiness, creating a harmonious and balanced experience.” Jonathon Mattick, Vigneron – Canobolas Wines
Equally impressive is the Mattick-Canbobolos take on Cabernet Franc. Mattick believes the variety is underestimated in Australia, and his wines make a persuasive case for it. His vineyard’s expression leans more towards Bordeaux than Bourgueil, with plush, silken weight and age-worthy structure, but without losing the perfume or freshness that makes Cabernet Franc such a distinctive thing when it is grown well.
On these cool Orange slopes, the variety seems particularly at home. The fruit comes from vines planted in 1985 on rocky, stony parcels of red ferrosol soil. Harvest took place over three non-consecutive days, allowing Mattick to pick each parcel at the point he wanted it, before a cold soak and 11 months in oak, of which just 10% was new.
Gold at 2025 Orange Wine Show
96 points, Shanteh Wale, Halliday Wine Companion “This is a wine of distinction from the outset, carrying a depth of black fruit. Fig skin, bilberry and cassis lead, underscored by the earthy richness and compost-like complexity so characteristic of cabernet franc. It feels vibrant and assured. The fruit unfurls with concentration, while tannins remain ethereally fine. There is a quiet polish here, the result of exacting grape selection, gentle handling and attentive élevage through to bottling. A stunning release.”
RRP $55 Our Special Price $48.99 when you buy 6 or more of this wine.
