Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot 2006
Bordeaux Red Blends
from Margaret River, Australia
winemaker's notes:
This wine is very reminiscent of the Cabernet Merlot made in 1982, a year that was likewise very cool and resulted in harvesting occurring appreciably later than usual. Some idea of the potential of the 2006 Diana Madeline can be gauged by the fact that the 1982 Cabernet Merlot is still drinking very well and showing no signs of being on its last legs.
The 2006 Diana Madeline was made from a blend of 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. The wine was matured for 15 months in French barriques, of which 40% were new.
A deep ruby garnet-red with a crimson meniscus.
The bouquet is a combination of fresh and complex chocolate and blackberries. The palate is elegant, rich and flavorsome. Classic fresh, "crunchy" blackberry Cabernet fruit is backed by firm but unobtrusive tannins. Great length that leaves lovely lingering flavors. Delicious! Can cellar at least 20 years.
critical acclaim:
"Bright hue, although not particularly deep; lighter fruit style than usual, albeit with normal tannin structure; needs three years before entering its plateau. Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot/Petit Verdot/Cabernet Franc/Malbec."
94 Points
Australian Wine Companion
"Bright red. An expansive, compelling bouquet offers red- and blackcurrant, spicy cherry, rose and licorice scents. Juicy red and dark berry flavors display liqueur-like depth and are propped up by fine-grained tannins. Sappy, mineral-accented cherry and blackcurrant flavors linger on the finish, which is crisp and precise. Not a heavyweight, and I suspect that those who see all Australian red wines through a Barossa shiraz lens will find this wanting-maybe even a European wannabe. "
92 Points
International Wine Cellar
"Cullen's Diana Madeline is amazingly consistent from year to year, and the 2006 continues that tradition. It’s maybe a touch fuller-bodied and rounder than some years, but maintains a sense of restraint and a timeless blend of tobacco, cedar and cassis, finishing with a flourish of mint. "
90 Points
Wine Enthusiast
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