2024 Cullen Vineyard Wilyabrup Cabernet Merlot Biodynamic, Margaret River

Brilliant deep dense purple-red colour; cedar and cassis on the nose, some pomegranate and edgy oak overtones, the palate intense and bright, slightly raw in its extreme youth, the fruit and massed tannins bold and slightly pushy on the palate; it begs to be left alone for a few more years. But those who love raw frothing young reds would lap it up right now. Big potential though, if cellared. 06 Mar 2025 Drink 2027–2036

94 points Erin Larkin robertparker.com

The 2024 Cullen Vineyard Wilyabrup Cabernet Merlot is often affectionately referred to by insiders as the “baby Diana Madeline,” and for good reason. Made from the same revered estate vineyard in the heart of Wilyabrup and crafted with the same biodynamic philosophy, this wine offers a glimpse into the pedigree and elegance of Cullen’s flagship at a more accessible level. Critics consistently praise it for its finesse, balance and purity, describing it as one of the most refined expressions of a Margaret River Cabernet blend outside of the region’s elite.

Vanya Cullen’s commitment to biodynamics and minimal intervention winemaking is on full display here. The fruit is hand picked according to the biodynamic calendar, vinified with wild yeasts and matured in French oak barrels with restraint and care. The vineyard, first planted in 1971, is dry grown and low yielding, producing fruit with exceptional concentration and natural acidity.

The wine opens with a lifted nose of blackcurrant, mulberry, bay leaf and violets, wrapped in subtle layers of graphite, tobacco leaf and warm spice. The palate is medium bodied and silky, with fine-grained tannins and a long, savoury finish. Cabernet provides structure and aromatic lift, while Merlot rounds out the texture with plush red fruit and spice. There is no heaviness here—just clarity, energy and poise.

Critics frequently highlight its quiet sophistication and ageing potential, calling it a wine that overdelivers on every level. While Diana Madeline is built for the long haul, this Cabernet Merlot can be enjoyed earlier, though it will also reward five to ten years of cellaring with increasing depth and detail.

Pair it with roast lamb, mushroom and truffle risotto, or chargrilled eggplant with tahini and lemon. It is equally compelling with a wedge of Comté or manchego cheese.

The 2024 Cullen Vineyard Wilyabrup Cabernet Merlot is a biodynamic wine of precision and grace. It is a wine that speaks softly but with undeniable authority, and it remains one of the great values in Australian fine wine.