The 2017 Jasper Red Blend comprises 53% Cabernet Franc, 36% Malbec, 5% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 3% Petit Verdot that undergoes triple sorting. I find the nose just a little smudged at first, maybe missing the delineation of the Dolomite Cabernet Franc (for example). The palate is medium- bodied with firm yet supple tannins, meaty/bloody red berry fruit and bay leaf, cracked black pepper and tobacco toward the finish. Not bad, though it is shown up by some of Raats's other new releases.

The 2017 Red Jasper is roughly 60% Cabernet Franc, 30% Malbec, with the remaining 10% a mix of Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. A bolder expression of Cabernet Franc can be experienced on the nose with dusty florals and a deep expressive core of fruit. For anyone who is not a fan of Cabernet Franc, this wine is the gateway as it expresses a bolder style. The palate is balanced and structured, in its youth, still showing a tight focus. The finish is spicy, softly tannic with a firm grip of dusty earth, possessing a depth of flavor, representing a good quality wine at a fair price. 27,499 bottles made.

A balanced, medium-bodied red, with an appealing mix of ripe and juicy black currant and black cherry fruit with accents of rose hip, dried thyme, talc and anise. Chalky finish. Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now. 2,291 cases made, 672 cases imported.