Clairault Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

Blend:   91% Cabernet Sauvignon
              9% Cabernet Franc

Vineyards:   100% Clairault Vineyard, Wilyabrup

Growing:   The Clairault Vineyard is one of Margaret River's earliest established vineyards, with Houghton clone Cabernet Sauvignon vines planted in 1976. These vines sit atop a gentle slope, growing in the region's signature Forest Grove soils.
 

Winemaking:   The fruit is harvested, de-stemmed and crushed, so that each berry is just split. This is to ensure minimal berry degradation during the fermentation process and to promote fresh, clean flavour. The wine is aged in French oak barriques for 10 months.

Vintage:   The growing season began with a cool and relatively dry spring. Summer turned on at the right time with warm even temperatures, setting the scene for gentle and consistent ripening across all varieties. It was another great vintage, with the seasons all playing their part. The biggest challenge for 2023 was pressure from birds due to a lack of Marri blossom and the drawn-out nature of the vintage. Rains in April danced with cabernet sauvignon picking dates.

Aroma:   Black cherries, currants and cassis, with hints of cocoa nib and cedar.

Palate:   A dense entry of red and black fruit, guided by gravelly tannin and a broad core of spiced black mulberries. The finish is punctuated by succulent mineral tones and defined hints of violets and liquorice.

Cellaring:   Enjoyed for its freshness now, or cellar for up to 10 years for added complexity.

Alcohol:   14%

Accolades:    SILVER, Margaret River Wine Show 2025