Cullen Ephraim 2023

Region and Vineyards

Margaret River sits between the Indian and Southern Oceans, enjoying a maritime-influenced Mediterranean climate with even heat accumulation, cooling sea breezes and high winter rainfall—conditions that preserve acidity and extend ripening. In the northern sector, Wilyabrup is prized for elegant, deeply structured reds. Its ridge soils are predominantly gravelly and gritty sandy loams derived from ancient granite and gneiss, often over laterite and clay, promoting excellent drainage, deep rooting and concentration.

Ephraim is sourced 100% from Mangan Vineyard in Wilyabrup, farmed to Cullen's exacting biodynamic standards and dry-grown to favour low yields and flavour intensity. The site's old-granite, gravelly sandy loams over lateritic subsoils inflect the wine with dark fruit purity, floral lift and a savoury herbal thread. Vineyard work is entirely by hand, aligning harvest decisions with lunar and biodynamic calendars to capture vineyard energy and precision.

Winemaking

The blend is 70% Malbec and 30% Petit Verdot, all from Mangan Vineyard. Fruit was hand-picked across biodynamic flower days (including 23 March, New Moon Super Moon), then wild-fermented with no additions beyond minimal sulphur to faithfully express site character. The wine was unfined to preserve texture and detail.

Elevage ran 8 months in oak, 35% new, shaping supple structure without masking fruit. Basket pressing and gentle handling kept tannins fine-grained and chalk-edged, supporting a compact core of dark berries and blue fruits. Bottled at 13.5% alcohol, the 2023 shows clarity and drive, with Cullen's signature brightness and a lingering cocoa-toned lift.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Vibrant ruby, garnet-purple rim; dense and glass-staining.
• Aroma: Black cherry, mulberry and salty plum layered with violets, sage and thyme; hints of cocoa and subtle cedar.
• Palate: Compact, dark-fruited core (cherry, mulberry, plum) carried by fine, chalky tannins; savoury herb detail, lively acidity and a persistent chocolate-berry finish.

Did you know?

The 2023 release marks the renaming of Mangan East Block to Ephraim, honouring Ephraim Mayo Clarke—Dr. Kevin John Cullen's grandfather—who operated a store and winery in Bunbury and famously sold "Punchbowl" wine across Western Australia. The tribute underscores Cullen's continuum of family stewardship and place-first philosophy.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Chargrilled lamb backstrap with rosemary and garlic — dark fruit depth and herb notes echo the seasoning; tannins cut the protein.
• Venison loin with juniper and blackcurrant jus — game's intensity suits Petit Verdot's structure and Ephraim's berry-cocoa finish.
• Roast duck with five-spice and plum glaze — savoury spice and plum glaze mirror the wine's salty-plum, violet profile.
• Portobello mushroom and thyme ragù with polenta — umami and herbs sync with the wine's savoury, herbal line and fine tannin.

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.