Cullen Diana Madeline 2020 750ml

Cassis and red licorice on the nose, with bay and saltbush as well. The palate is salty and smooth, with layers upon layers of spice and texture. Tannins are highly grained gills that are packed as delicately as mushroom folds. The duration of the flavor unfolds and spreads across the palate, taking so long to fade that this complete tasting note can be obtained from a single sip. The rest are purely for enjoyment. Drink it now or wait 40+ years.

Winegrowing began on the Cullen property near Margaret River more than 40 years ago. According to studies conducted in the early 1960s, Margaret River possessed certain unique characteristics. The environment was ideal for cultivating Bordeaux types, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon. In 1966, Dr Kevin and Diana Cullen planted a trial acre of vines in Wilyabrup, following the advise of eminent agronomist Dr John Gladstone. The positive findings prompted the planting of 18 acres of vines on their sheep and cattle farm in 1971, including their first Cabernet Sauvignon plantings. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Semillon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc were planted from 1976 to 1978.

While Kevin Cullen worked as a doctor to support the business, Diana Cullen oversaw and managed the winery before becoming Chief Winemaker in 1981. Di made history in 1982 as the first woman to win a trophy at the Perth Royal Show. In 1983, she was joined by her daughter Vanya, who later became Chief Winemaker in 1989 and Managing Director in 1999.