2024 Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

Let this breathe to coax out the varietal flavours. The 12% malbec in the mix is strong and lovely – all plums and leather with a whiff of formic acid/crushed-ant character. But cabernet rules with its leafy freshness, mulberries, spice and menthol. The mid-weighted palate is supple thanks to neatly shaped tannins, and it feels plush throughout.

92 points Special Value Jane Faulkner for Halliday Wine Companion

Vasse Felix holds a special place in Australian wine history as Margaret River's founding winery, established by Dr Tom Cullity in 1967. Today, under the guidance of Chief Winemaker Virginia Willcock, the estate continues to set the benchmark for Cabernet Sauvignon. Filius, meaning "son" in Latin, reflects the same commitment to quality as the flagship wines while offering a vibrant, youthful expression of the region's celebrated Cabernet style.

The 2024 vintage was shaped by Margaret River's classic maritime climate, with warm days, cool nights and steady ripening conditions producing fruit of exceptional purity and balance. Sourced from premium estate and grower vineyards, the wine is crafted to highlight bright fruit, fine structure and the distinctive elegance that has made Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon renowned around the world.

The colour is a deep ruby with youthful crimson hues. Aromas of blackcurrant, dark cherry and mulberry are complemented by violet, cedar, bay leaf and a hint of cocoa. The palate is medium to full bodied, balancing vibrant black fruits with fine, powdery tannins and refreshing natural acidity. Notes of graphite, dried herbs and subtle oak add complexity before a long, polished finish that is both generous and beautifully composed.

A superb match for grilled lamb cutlets, slow roasted beef, mushroom and lentil pie, roast duck or mature cheddar. Enjoy over the next eight to twelve years as the wine develops additional savoury complexity and refinement.