2018 Domaine Naturaliste Morus Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

The immediate intensity and purity here is striking. Aromas of violets and blueberries, as well as redcurrants, fresh herbs and cedar all intertwine seamlessly. The palate is impeccably elegant, yet deeply concentrated, with dark-plum, blueberry and blackcurrant flavors set in elegantly fine, layered tannins. Drink over the next decade.

96 points James Suckling

Deep red/purple colour. Tomato bush and nori aromas intertwine with mulberry, a hint of eucalyptus, the palate bright and elegantly proportioned, if slightly uneven in its line at first. After a little time in the glass, it came into its stride; a sumptuously rich, concentrated cabernet with lovely balance and softness. Cellar it—a little more time will bring even more out of it. 03 DEC 2021

96 points Huon Hooke therealreview.com 

Matured for 14 months in French oak (57% new). This swings into action from the first whiff, with a cavalcade of dark berry fruits of all persuasions, the precisely delineated palate that follows with cassis, redcurrant, a sombre edge of earth and dried olive, joining mouth-watering tannins.

97 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

Bruce Dukes has earned a reputation as one of Margaret River's most accomplished winemakers, spending decades crafting wines for some of the region's most respected estates before establishing Domaine Naturaliste in 2011. Named after the nearby Cape Naturaliste, the winery reflects his deep understanding of Margaret River's vineyards and his commitment to producing wines that combine regional character with elegance and longevity. Morus, named after the mulberry tree, represents the pinnacle of the Cabernet Sauvignon range and is only produced in outstanding vintages.

The 2018 season is widely regarded as one of Margaret River's finest in recent decades. Warm, dry conditions and near perfect ripening weather allowed Cabernet Sauvignon to reach exceptional concentration while retaining freshness and balance. Fruit was sourced from premium vineyards across the region, with meticulous selection ensuring only the best parcels made their way into the final blend. Extended maturation in high quality French oak has added complexity and structure without overshadowing the fruit.

Deep garnet red in colour, the wine unfolds with captivating aromas of blackcurrant, mulberry and dark plum, layered with cedar, graphite, bay leaf and fine tobacco notes. Powerful yet beautifully composed, the palate delivers concentrated black fruits, cassis and dark chocolate alongside savoury hints of dried herbs and pencil shavings. Fine grained tannins provide impressive structure, while the region's hallmark freshness carries the wine through a long, seamless finish of remarkable poise and persistence.

This is a magnificent partner for slow roasted beef rib, herb crusted lamb rack, venison with blackberry jus or a rich mushroom and truffle pie. Although already showing impressive complexity, the wine remains youthful and has the pedigree to evolve gracefully for another fifteen to twenty years. For lovers of world class Cabernet Sauvignon, Morus demonstrates why Margaret River is often compared with the great Cabernet regions of the world, delivering power, refinement and longevity in equal measure.

Cellaring: Drink now to 2040+