Tapanappa produces wines from three specific sites, each remarkable for their individuality. The Whalebone vineyard in Wrattonbully is an archeologically unique site due to the presence of a 35 million year old whale skeleton discovered in its limestone soils. Here, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz thrive on limestone similar to St. Emilion in Bordeaux.
Tapanappa 2014 Merlot Cabernet Franc is an intense cool year wine with vibrant Merlot plum fruit, Cabernet Franc floral and leafiness and refined but determined tannins. It is an elegant wine with loads of primary fruit. Aromas of cigar box and complex ripe fruit accompanied by the earthy terroir nuances of the Whalebone Vineyard. The core of the wine is sweet and refined but the finish is of gentle savoury tannin.