2023 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

winemaker's note

This is one of the best wines that Deep Woods Estate makes. It's the one that I cellar for special occasions and also drink on a Tuesday with pizza.

Julian Langworthy, Chief Winemaker

colour

Deep crimson with purple hues.

aroma

Brimming with aromas of violets, blackberry bramble and bay leaf.

palate

Layers of red fruits, bitter chocolate and lifted violet nuances. Long and flavoursome finish supported by juicy, fine-grained tannins.

cellaring

This wine may be enjoyed on release but is capable of ageing and gaining complexity for 10 years from vintage.

vintage

We had a mild spring with adequate soil moisture, resulting in a slightly later season. A moderate summer led to ideal ripening conditions with little pressure in the vineyard and a lack of any major rain events during the ripening season. Consistently warm days and cool evenings made for great retention of acid within the grapes, whilst achieving optimal fruit expression.

winemaking

Fruit was crushed into separate fermenters and pump-overs and delestage were used to extract tannin and colour. After 10-14 days, the ferments were pressed before completing primary fermentation to dryness in tank. The wine was then racked into a selection of new and used tight grain, French oak barriques where it was left to mature for 18 months before blending.

region

Margaret River

varieties

Cabernet Sauvignon 76%
Merlot 16%
Malbec 6%
Petit Verdot 2%

analysis

• Alcohol: 14.5%
• Acidity (TA): 6.35 g/L
• pH: 3.52

Slow cooked lamb shanks in a rich Italian tomato sauce, served on a creamy mash.