LCBO Find: Southbrook Triomphe Cabernet Franc 2020

I talk a lot about Cabernet Franc and, by default, find myself seeking out food and wine pairings that include this grape variety.

My love of Cabernet Franc started with a deep dive of the Loire's Chinon. Cabernet Franc out of this region comes with a complexity that, aside from Northern Rhône Syrah, I had not encountered before. It just seemed that Chinon producer after producer brought a stylistic element that made me fall in love with this grape over and over again. I have since learned to really appreciate the different expressions of Cabernet Franc from around the world, and I really enjoy the sense of place each region adds to this grape's many dimensions. So, when I encounter a Cabernet Franc, not from the Loire, but bringing some of the Loire'esque elements that made me fall in love originally, I stand up and take notice. Here enters the Southbrook Triomphe, Cabernet Franc, 2020, from Ontario.

About Southbrook Winery

Southbrook Winery has a strong reputation for its commitment to biodynamic and organic viticulture, creating wines that authentically express their terroir. As a matter of fact, in 2008, Southbrook Winery became the first wine estate in Canada to earn both organic and biodynamic certification for its vineyard and winery.

With a deep respect for nature and sustainability, Southbrook focuses on producing stunning, balanced wines that celebrate the distinctive characteristics of cool-climate grape varieties, especially their celebrated Triomphe series featuring Cabernet Franc.

Embracing minimal intervention in both vineyard and cellar practices, Southbrook’s wines reflect a purity of fruit, vibrant acidity, and nuanced complexity, making them a standout choice if looking to shop for local, environmentally responsible wines.

About Southbrook Triomphe, Cabernet Franc, 2020

Admittedly, one of the things I love the most about Loire Cabernet Franc is the earthy qualities (forest floor, damp leaves, mushroom, and borderline brettiness) presented amongst the ripe red fruit, made possible from very low intervention winemaking, and this is a parallel with Southbrook Winery. The afore keeps the consumer involved with every sip, revealing something new, and that to me is magic. Put plainly, Southbrook's organic and biodynamic farming practices, in a cool climate like Ontario's, bring out some Loire reminiscent qualities in this wine that make me smile.

On sight, the Southbrook Triomphe, Cabernet Franc, 2020 is deep ruby, bordering on purple. On the nose, red berries like cherry, and cranberry sing, coupled with rose water. On the palate, a recognizable mineral finish is present amongst cherry, raspberry, anise, bay leaf, mushroom, and leather. The structure on the palate is defined by medium+ acidity, medium alcohol, and medium tannin.

Given its complexity and long finish, the Southbrook Triomphe, Cabernet Franc, 2020 is a joy to pair with. I have experimented pairing this wine with many one-pot rice dishes, braised lamb, and even basic French fries. With each pairing, I discover something new. This is a must try if you are a fan of the abundant(!!!) earthy qualities you see from Loire Cabernet Franc - hands down, I am a fan.

You can find the Southbrook Triomphe, Cabernet Franc, 2020 at the LCBO for $26.95