2012 Cullen, Vanya, Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River, Australia

Winemaker and environmentalist Vanya Cullen, a strong believer in biodynamic viticulture, has harnessed the rhythms of the cosmos, Earth’s energy and vitality to ‘achieve greater individuality of site through working with nature rather than against it’. In 1966 her parents Dr Kevin and Diana Cullen planted a trial one-acre (0.4-hectare) vineyard on their sheep and cattle property at Wilyabrup in the Margaret River. A new vineyard was planted in 1971 with further plantings in 1976 and 1988. The low-cropping, 28-hectare, dry-grown estate is a riot of colour and biodiversity. Vanya Cullen is convinced that biodynamic principles have shaped the quality, character and consistency of the fruit. Her devotion to ‘quality, integrity and sustainability’ in vineyards and winery have resulted in something extraordinary and special. The Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot is all about vineyard character, finesse, flavour and longevity. The hand-harvested grapes are picked when the fruit has achieved optimum tannin ripeness, flavour development and acid balance, usually when the moon is running high. The introduction of sorting tables and minimal handling has further improved quality. Between 10 and 50% of the wine is partially barrel fermented; the rest is given extended maceration before further maturation in 30% new, tightly-grained French oak