Vasse Felix Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2016

Vasse Felix, Margaret River’s founding wine estate, was established by Dr Thomas Brendan Cullity in 1967. Among his first plantings were Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec vines, from which he produced the estate’s first red wine. The Tom Cullity descends from these original vines and represents the pinnacle of Vasse Felix. The 2016 vintage is a lovely blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot. On the nose, a deep perfume of wild berries reveals distinctive savoury character, woodsy Margaret River Forest and briny ocean breeze. Intense and powerful with dried rose petal and violet notes paired with earthy aromas of mushrooms, the spice of fresh cedar, and linseed oil. Hints of peppermint are complemented by enticing notes of canelé pastry and dark chocolate. On the palate, incredibly luscious, rich fruit builds into a long, fine, powdery tannin structure. Refreshing floral notes are expressed throughout the palate with lingering blackcurrant and blackberry. Medium bodied, the complexity of ocean and nori influence pairs beautifully with notes of chocolate, polished leather and exotic spices. An elegant, palpable and clean dry finish with earthy power and wild berry custard tart rounding out this complex palate.