Cullen Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020

Cullen Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020

 

Zoom Mouse over image to zoom
Cullen
Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020
  • Vintage : 2020
  • Country : Australia
  • Region : Margaret River
  • Subregion :
  • Type : Red
  • Style : Rich and Spicy
  • Format : 75cl
  • Alcohol : 13°
  • Grappes : 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc

The Cullen Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot is a blend of elegance and power, showcasing a rich complexity and structure characteristic of Margaret River.

Experts Score Vintage
JH James Halliday 94 2020
JS James Suckling 94 2020
W&S Wines & Spirits 93 2020
More information on wine critics and ratings

Region and Vineyards

The Margaret River region in Western Australia is celebrated for its Bordeaux-style blends, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. The Cullen vineyard, located in Wilyabrup, benefits from a temperate maritime climate, moderated by the nearby Indian Ocean. This unique climate, along with ancient granite and gravelly loam soils, encourages vine health and promotes deep-rooted vineyards, contributing to the wine’s structure and depth. Established in 1971, the vineyard is certified biodynamic and carbon-neutral, emphasizing Cullen’s commitment to sustainability and terroir-driven winemaking.

Winemaking

This vintage experienced exceptionally dry conditions, with lower-than-average rainfall from the winter and hot, dry months leading into harvest. These conditions produced low yields with smaller berry sizes, intensifying flavor concentration. This blend comprises 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 26% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 1% Malbec, and 1% Cabernet Franc. Following hand-harvesting, the wine was matured for 8 months in French oak barrels, with 33% new oak to enhance complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

Tasting Notes

  • Color: Deep ruby with violet hues.
  • Aroma: A complex bouquet of red fruits, plum, cigar box, and mineral notes.
  • Palate: Rich and layered, showcasing dark chocolate and mulberry flavors, framed by dense tannins that emphasize the Cabernet’s pedigree. Hints of forest fruits on the mid-palate promise further development with time in bottle.

Did you know?

This wine highlights Cullen’s pioneering biodynamic practices, and the Cullen family has led Margaret River’s shift to sustainable viticulture. Vanya Cullen’s commitment to these methods was key to the vineyard becoming the first carbon-neutral winery in Australia.

Wine Pairing Ideas

  • Braised Short Ribs: The wine’s tannins and depth enhance the richness of slow-cooked meats.
  • Grilled Portobello Mushrooms: Earthy flavors complement the wine’s dark fruit and mineral notes.
  • Aged Gouda: The cheese’s nutty profile pairs well with the wine’s complex layers.
  • Roasted Duck with Plum Sauce: Fruit flavors from the wine echo the sauce’s sweetness, balancing the duck’s richness.

History of Cullen

Founded by Kevin and Diana Cullen in 1971, Cullen Wines is among the oldest estates in Margaret River, a region they helped put on the world wine map. Initially focused on creating quality wines reflective of their terroir, the Cullens were early advocates of Australian Cabernet Sauvignon, setting a benchmark for the style within the region. Kevin, a medical doctor, and Diana, a passionate wine advocate, envisioned their winery as a family venture that prioritized quality, environmental stewardship, and regional expression.

In 1989, Vanya Cullen, their daughter, took the helm as head winemaker. Under her leadership, the estate saw a transformative shift towards biodynamic farming and, eventually, carbon-neutral certification—a first in Australia. Vanya’s dedication to minimal intervention winemaking has been pivotal to Cullen Wines’ success and evolution, emphasizing natural vine health and soil vitality. Her influence has garnered international acclaim, including multiple Winemaker of the Year awards, and she continues to lead Cullen Wines as an exemplar of biodynamic and organic viticulture in Australia.

Region and Vineyards

Cullen Wines is situated in Wilyabrup, a premier subregion within Margaret River, just two miles from the Indian Ocean. This proximity provides a Mediterranean climate that balances warm, sunny days with cool, ocean-breezed nights. Such conditions support a long growing season, ideal for Bordeaux varietals and Chardonnay. These factors allow the vines to ripen slowly, enhancing natural acidity and aromatic complexity in the fruit, which is essential for the elegant, age-worthy wines Cullen is known for.

The 69-acre estate is entirely biodynamically farmed and dry-grown, which strengthens vine resilience and promotes intense, site-expressive flavors in the grapes. The soils are composed of granite and gravelly sandy loam over lateritic subsoils, providing excellent drainage that encourages deep rooting and concentrated flavors. Vanya Cullen’s implementation of the Lyre trellis system optimizes sunlight exposure and air circulation, enhancing the ripeness and quality of varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Semillon. These vineyards, established in the 1970s, continue to produce wines with a true sense of place, showcasing Margaret River’s unique terroir and Cullen Wines' dedication to sustainable viticulture.

Wine Range of Cullen

Cullen Wines offers a selection of highly esteemed wines that emphasize the estate’s dedication to terroir expression and quality. The flagship Diana Madeline, a Bordeaux-style blend named in honor of founder Diana Cullen, is crafted from old-vine Cabernet Sauvignon and is revered for its balance, depth, and aging potential. This iconic wine is a testament to Cullen’s commitment to quality and minimal intervention.

The Kevin John Chardonnay, produced from old vines planted between 1976 and 1988, is another standout in the portfolio. Known for its elegance, texture, and complexity, this wine showcases the unique qualities of Margaret River Chardonnay and Cullen’s attention to biodynamic detail, including aging in biodynamic oak barrels.

Another notable wine is Vanya, a rare Cabernet Sauvignon produced only in exceptional vintages. It embodies Cullen’s minimalist approach to winemaking, with layers of primary fruit, savory undertones, and a structure that allows for extensive aging.

The Red Moon, a vibrant blend from the Mangan Vineyard, includes Malbec, Petit Verdot, and Merlot and highlights Cullen’s passion for biodynamic practices with alternative varieties.

The Grace Madeline and Dancing in the Sun white blends capture the freshness of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Verdelho, celebrating the brightness and vibrancy of Margaret River’s maritime influence.

Did You Know?

Cullen Wines was the first winery in Australia to achieve carbon-neutral certification, reflecting a deep commitment to environmental stewardship. Each wine reflects a family legacy, with biodynamic practices that ensure both quality and sustainability for future generations.

James Halliday (JH) : 94 Points (2020)
70/26/2/1/1% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/petit verdot/cabernet franc/malbec, 63/37% Cullen/Mangan vineyards, harvested in 12 batches, each representing different components of the moon cycle. This is super-restrained; the length allows the delicate fruit to unfurl and unfold over the palate. Mulberry, salted blood plum, dusted cassis and bramble overlaid with salt bush, licorice, fennel flower and cigar. A gorgeous wine. Effortless.

James Suckling (JS) : 94 Points (2020)
Fresh, violet-like aromas with blue and red-berry tones, too. This is so pure and vibrant. The palate has very elegant shape and fluid, fine tannins that deliver red-berry, plum and blueberry flavors.

Wines & Spirits (W&S) : 93 Points (2020)
Tart and tight, centered around sage and rosemary notes and smoky chile flavors, the biodynamically farmed wine from the far coast is rich without weight. There’s a sweet, fruity guajillo pepper spice up front, and a salty, herbal note to the dark fruit, lasting on the fresh edge of parsley. Give this a year or two in the cellar for the fruit to fill out all the complex aromatics.

Cullen Mangan East Block 2021
Cullen Mangan East Block 2021
Cullen
Mangan East Block 2021
RP
92
Cullen Mangan East Block is a biodynamic red blend from Margaret River, expressing vibrant fruit and elegant structure with a commitment to sustainability and quality.
39,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Kevin John Chardonnay 2022
Cullen Kevin John Chardonnay 2022
Cullen
Kevin John Chardonnay 2022
RP
98
JH
97
DCT
96
Cullen Kevin John Wilyabrup Chardonnay is a biodynamic Chardonnay from Margaret River, showcasing intricate flavors and remarkable texture, reflecting Cullen’s commitment to quality and sustainability.
130,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Diana Madeline 2019
Cullen Diana Madeline 2019
Cullen
Diana Madeline 2019
JH
98
WE
97
DCT
96
A standout from an exceptional vintage, this biodynamic Cabernet Sauvignon blend reveals layers of fruit purity and elegant structure, ideal for aging.
120,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Dancing in the Sun 2018
Cullen Dancing in the Sun 2018
Cullen
Dancing in the Sun 2018
WS
88
RP
88
WE
89
A biodynamic white from Cullen, Dancing in the Sun brings a lively mix of Semillon, Sauvignon Blanc, and Verdelho with a refreshing acidity and bright citrus.
22,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Diana Madeline 2020
Cullen Diana Madeline 2020
Cullen
Diana Madeline 2020
JH
98
JS
95
The Cullen Diana Madeline 2020 embodies the essence of Margaret River with its rich, concentrated fruit and a fine mineral backbone, highlighting the intense character of a warm vintage.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Diana Madeline 2021
Cullen Diana Madeline 2021
Cullen
Diana Madeline 2021
RP
97
JH
97
DCT
97
An iconic Australian wine, the 2021 Diana Madeline reveals vibrant aromas and intense flavors, crafted with Cullen’s unwavering commitment to biodynamic viticulture and sustainability.
125,00 €
Quantity : moins plus
Cullen Grace Madeline Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Cullen Grace Madeline Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Cullen
Grace Madeline Sauvignon Blanc 2022
JH
95
RP
94
The Cullen Grace Madeline is an exceptional biodynamic white blend that captures the pure essence of Margaret River with bright acidity and mineral depth.
37,90 €
Quantity : moins plus
Wine regions guide
32,50 €
Quantity : Moins     Plus
 
 
We also suggest...
Australia
98 James Halliday
Cullen Diana Madeline 2020
Cullen Diana Madeline 2020
The Cullen Diana Madeline 2020 embodies the essence of Margaret River with its rich, concentrated fruit and a fine mineral backbone, highlighting the intense character of a warm vintage.
Diana Madeline 2020
125,00 €
Australia
95 James Halliday
Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
Henschke Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
This blend from Henschke celebrates tradition and terroir, combining Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot to create a wine of exceptional depth and balance.
Keyneton Estate Euphonium 2018
58,50 €
South Africa
88 Robert Parker
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2020
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2020
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2020 is a daring and innovative blend, inspired by the elegance of Italian varietals and seamlessly crafted in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
Hannibal 2020
43,00 €
Australia
88 Robert Parker
Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020
Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020
Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot is a refined blend, showcasing dark fruit, firm structure, and a touch of elegance from Coonawarra’s renowned terroir.
Cabernet Sauvignon - Merlot 2020
30,90 €
Australia
94+ Robert Parker
Two Hands Charlie's Garden Shiraz 2021
Two Hands Charlie's Garden Shiraz 2021
Two Hands Charlie’s Garden is a refined Eden Valley Shiraz, offering an elegant structure, bright red fruit aromatics, and vibrant acidity. This cool-climate expression balances power and finesse, making it a standout in the Garden Series.
Charlie's Garden Shiraz 2021
45,00 €
Australia
Yarra Yering Dry Red No. 2 2016
Yarra Yering Dry Red No. 2 2016
The Yarra Yering Dry Red No. 2 is a masterful blend of Shiraz, Viognier, Mataro, and Marsanne, offering a complex bouquet of violets, plums, and savory spices, supported by firm yet fine tannins.
Dry Red No. 2 2016
71,90 €