Located in the Yarra Valley, 65 kilometres northeast of Melbourne, the thousand candles farm is a historic, sprawling property that stretches over 1100 acres. It comprises of vineyards, cattle pastures, and native bush.

100% natural yeast. 30% whole bunch. 70% destemmed whole berries. The whole bunch adds to the natural lift and perfume of this wine. The ferment is treated gently with no harsh pump overs or plunging. We are aiming for bright fruit characters and soft tannins. Aged in older barriques for 9 months. Racked a few times then bottled with no fining or filtration.

Yet another thoughtfully made, well-priced wine from Stuart Proud and the team at Thousand Candles. A bright ruby red, this poised and expressive wine delivers red cherry and blackberry fruit aromas with hints of bay leaf and pink peppercorns. Light to medium-bodied, the fruit is bright and crunchy and those chalky tannins are crying out for a barbecued lamb cutlet or the like on a warm night. A lovely example of cabernet franc. Drink to: 2028; Price: $36.00; Date Tasted: October 2023; Alcohol: 12.5%; Rating: 96 Points & Special Value Star; James Halliday Wine Companion

Salty raspberry. Pickled in brine. It’s bloody, plummy, iron-rich with seaweed, cedarwood and dark chocolate. It’s a strong delivery of salt and bitterness with vibrancy and utter savouriness. Delicious. Tannins are of dusty texture but very much alive and energetic. Love this distinctive expression of CF. Drink: 2024-2029+; Price: $36.00; Rated: 93 Points; The Wine Front