Cullen Diana Madeline 2021

The Cullen Diana Madeline is an iconic Bordeaux-style blend from the Margaret River region, specifically from the Wilyabrup subregion. The vineyard, planted in the early 1970s, benefits from granite and gravelly sandy loam soils. The Cullen estate follows biodynamic practices, which enhance the health and vibrancy of the vines.

The blend consists of 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Merlot, 3% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Malbec. The 2021 vintage presented challenges, including high bird pressure and rainfall, but low yields allowed for meticulous harvesting at optimal ripeness. Grapes were hand-picked, sorted, and fermented with indigenous yeasts for 10–29 days. The wine was aged for 15 months in French oak barrels, 50% of which were new.

Garnet in colour with youthful ruby-purple hues, this wine is deeply perfumed with aromas of mulberry, wild rose, salty plum, and chocolate. On the palate, juicy notes of plum, cherry, and mulberry are framed by fine-grained tannins and earthy elements of ironstone and dust, reflecting the Wilyabrup terroir.

This wine pairs beautifully with herb-crusted lamb racks, beef tenderloin, or duck confit. Its also complements aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Manchego.