Jauma Birdsey Seaview Cab Franc 2020

The Birdsey Seaview is a single-vineyard Cabernet Franc from Peter Birdsey's block on the Seaview ridge in McLaren Vale, South Australia. The vines were around 30 years old at the time of the 2020 harvest and grow on red sand over clay, elevated above the bay. Organically farmed by viticulturist Fiona Wood under NASAA certification.

The 2020 vintage was notable for the absence of hen-and-chicken — the uneven fruit set that normally leaves a percentage of small, hard, green berries on the clusters. Without it, the fruit came in more even, riper, and more complete than in a typical year. James Erskine fermented the grapes on skins for three weeks, then pressed to old French oak where the wine rested for ten months before bottling. Zero additions, no fining, no filtration. Sealed under crown cap.

On the palate, this reads as the fuller, more structured end of the Jauma lineup — dark-fruited and aromatic, with briary tannin, earthy depth, and a floral lift characteristic of Cabernet Franc. The extended skin contact adds grip and texture without tipping into austerity.

Jauma produces all wines without any additions or subtractions: no sulfur, no added yeasts, no acids, no fining agents. This bottle is a direct expression of a single block, a single vintage, and one winemaker's decision-making in the cellar.