Vintage
2024 was one of the earliest vintages ever seen in Margaret River with early flowering and fruit set resulting in picking dates up to 3 weeks prior to the regions average for some varieties.
Consistently warm and dry conditions allowed for exceptional fruit ripeness and flavours with a very well-balanced natural acidity. Extensive marri blossom resulted in minimal pest pressure in the vineyard. The quality of fruit is fantastic and 2024 has produced some very exciting wines with flavour definition and power.
This wine is created from select rows amongst two iconic Yallingup Hills vineyards, Deep Woods Estate block 3 and Abbey Vale block 9. Both planted in the mid-80s and each block consistently makes up the Reserve Cabernet blend year after year.
Winemaking
The fruit was harvested at optimum ripeness to preserve balance between fruit sweetness and natural acidity within the grape. Each block was fermented separately for a period of 10–14 days on skins, with temperatures ranging between 18–26°C.
Considered maceration techniques were utilised to build tannin profile and colour while ensuring the fruit and skin integrity is maintained throughout fermentation. Post ferment the must was pressed to a series of new and seasoned French oak barriques for a further 14–16 months maturation.
Region
Margaret River
Variety
Cabernet Sauvignon
Clone
Houghton
Analysis
- Alcohol: 14.0%
- pH: 3.53
- TA: 6.25 g/L
