This wine comes from the northern part of Margaret River where optimal ripeness is assured. Maturation in French oak barriques provides complexity to this generous, elegant and structured wine. The dry tannin structure of Cabernet Sauvignon is mellowed by the soft generous body of Merlot. A small amount of Malbec accentuates both varieties providing depth of colour, aroma, flavour and structure.
Vintage Description
Mild conditions in Margaret River with no extreme weather conditions, allowing for balanced fruit and a slow and steady intake. There was no disease pressure and fruit quality is excellent the only disappointment was yields being down across the Region for all key varieties. This was the outcome of storms in spring and pressure from an increase in the local population of Silver Eyes (birds) and no Marri Blossom.
5 Star
This is another great Aussie red, but this time from the Northern parts of the Margaret River. The winery was named after a legendary helmsman Thomas Timothee Vasse who was lost at sea in 1801 and rumored to have lived among the Australian Aboriginals. The winery, established in the late 1960s by Dr Tom Cullity, was named Vasse Felix, meaning 'lucky/happy' Vasse. The long hot Aussie summer with consistent, almost rhythmic temperature patterns throughout the ripening season has ensured optimum ripeness and delivered a beautifully rounded blend. The touch of merlot delivers a deep maroon colour and with gorgeous complexities provided by maturation in French oak barriques. With elevated bright perfumes of pomegranate, cassis and a cranberry jelly with rustic earthy tones of native Australian forest and red dust. The enticing complexity shows a touch of tomato leaf, cumin and steamed cedar wood. The palette has a lovely vibrant entrance with fresh juicy fruit, bright acidity, fine tight dry tannins and floral and cranberry nuances. A long, direct palate flows, finishing with savoury notes of sage and dried oregano and some raspberry jelly sweetness. (2014)
Balance
This blend balances the concentration and structure of dark black fruits with cedary French oak and fine tannins. Rustic, earthy notes entwine with aromatics of pomegranate and cranberry. The bright palate structure shows wonderful herbal notes of sage and oregano, a great match for the tarragon in the salsa. (2014)
Delicious, elegant, fragrant
One of my favourite mainstream Aussie producers. My notes read 'Delicious, elegant, fragrant, velvety - why drink Bordeaux?' Why indeed at this price? Pair with roast lamb. (2014)
92 Points
Opens with a fresh green accent reminiscent of tomato leaf and sage, giving a savory, peppery grace note to the plush, velvety cassis and plum core. Finds balance between grace and power, with spice and herb elements lingering on the finish. Drink now through 2028. M.W.