Cullen Grace Madeline Sauvignon Blanc 2022

Region and Vineyards

Produced in Wilyabrup, a subregion of Margaret River, the Grace Madeline vineyard benefits from a maritime climate that is ideal for growing aromatic white varietals. The cool breezes from the Indian Ocean moderate the temperature, enabling a long ripening period that preserves natural acidity and allows the full expression of fruit flavors. This region’s unique terroir, with its granite and gravelly sandy loam over lateritic subsoils, supports deep-rooted vines that yield fruit with concentrated flavors and a touch of minerality.

The Cullen Vineyard has been managed with biodynamic practices since the late 1970s, making it one of Australia’s earliest certified biodynamic vineyards. The vines, including Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon planted in 1976, are dry-farmed and trained on a Lyre trellis to maximize leaf exposure and ripening. This biodynamic and carbon-neutral approach, coupled with the vineyard’s unique soil composition, enables the vines to thrive naturally, creating a wine that embodies the terroir’s vitality.

Winemaking

This vintage benefitted from a wet winter followed by a dry, mild summer, producing excellent conditions for ripening. Grapes were harvested on biodynamic fruit and flower days between February 25th and March 7th. The wine is composed of 76% Sauvignon Blanc and 24% Semillon. Some skin contact was used to add phenolic tension, enhancing the wine’s structure and mouthfeel.

To preserve freshness and complexity, part of the juice was fermented in a concrete egg, which aids in textural development, while 74% of the Sauvignon Blanc aged in biodynamic barrels for 6 months. This combination of stainless steel and biodynamic oak aging allows the wine to retain its vibrant acidity and mineral-driven purity while gaining subtle depth and creaminess.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Pale straw with green highlights.
• Aroma: Aromas of pineapple, apple, lime, and citrus with a hint of minerality.
• Palate: Bright and refreshing with flavors of apple, citrus, and lime, supported by crisp acidity and a lingering, polished finish that showcases mineral complexity.

Did you know?

The Grace Madeline label honors Grace Cullen, the mother of Diana Madeline, whose legacy of strength and activism is carried on through Cullen’s dedication to organic and sustainable practices. The wine is a celebration of family heritage and biodynamic excellence.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Seared Scallops with Citrus Butter: The wine’s acidity enhances the scallops’ richness and highlights citrus flavors.
• Herb-Roasted Chicken: Complements the herbal and fruity notes, balancing the chicken’s savory qualities.
• Ceviche with Fresh Herbs: The wine’s crisp profile matches the freshness and citrusy notes of ceviche.
• Soft Goat Cheese Salad: The bright acidity and herbal undertones of the wine complement the creaminess and tang of goat cheese.

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.