2023 Leeuwin Estate Prelude Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

Well well, I wonder what the 2023 Art Series Cabernet is going to be like if this is any indication. This is one third each of new, one year old and two year old oak.

Black fruit, cherry, floral and bay leaf perfume, cocoa and baking spice. It’s medium-bodied, plenty of flavour here, though it has a crispness to acidity and energy that’s spot on, tobacco savouries, and the sweep of stony tannin is something of a highlight. The finish is fresh and long, tinged with black olive and dried herb, some juicy raspberry in the aftertaste. So excellent.

94 points Gary Walsh winefront.com.au

From the celebrated vineyards of Margaret River, Leeuwin Estate has become one of Australia’s most respected wine producers. The estate was established in the early 1970s by Denis and Tricia Horgan after encouragement from the legendary Robert Mondavi, who recognised the remarkable potential of the region. Today the winery remains family owned and is run by the second generation of the Horgan family. While Leeuwin is best known internationally for its iconic Art Series Chardonnay, the estate also produces beautifully balanced red wines from Margaret River’s gravelly soils and maritime climate.

The Prelude range represents wines that capture the character of the estate in a more approachable style while maintaining the quality that Leeuwin Estate is known for. The Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from estate vineyards where warm days and cooling ocean breezes allow the fruit to ripen fully while retaining freshness and structure.

The wine shows a deep ruby colour with bright crimson tones. Aromas open with blackcurrant, plum and dark cherry layered with cedar, dried herbs and subtle tobacco leaf. As the wine evolves in the glass hints of graphite, spice and gentle oak begin to appear. The palate is medium to full bodied with fine tannins supporting flavours of cassis, blackberry and savoury herbs across a polished frame. Fresh acidity keeps the wine lively while careful oak maturation adds depth and balance. The finish is long and smooth with lingering dark fruit and spice, making it a wonderful expression of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon.