Cullen

Cab Merlot 2011

Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot is one of Australia's defining Cabernets with its beautiful fruit definition, refined tannin structure and remarkable resonance of place. Typically the Cabernet component is pristine with classic tannin structures and the Merlot is plummy and soft. A small proportion of Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot add further complexity. The fruit is sourced from estate owned biodynamically farmed vineyards. Between 10 and 50 percent of the wine is partially barrel fermented; the rest is given extended maceration before further maturation in 30 percent new, tightly-grained French oak. The colours are vibrant and inky and the aromas beautifully pitched with blackcurrant pastille, dark cherry fruit and violet camomile notes. Palate structures are supple, fine grained and lacy with plenty of plummy cassis flavours and savoury cedar new oak. While the wine is seductive when young, it has a reputation for developing further complexity while maintaining lively, dark fruits on the palate.