Jilyara Heath Road Cabernet Malbec 2022

Accolades

Ray Jordan – 92 Points
“This first-rate vintage has been expertly harnessed into a classy blend. It picks up the red fruits of malbec, which work seamlessly into the darker, more powerfully structured fruit of cabernet. Mulberry, plummy redcurrant and a fine chalky edge come together, while a subtle, slightly meaty blackcurrant note adds layered complexity. The palate is supple, juicy and generous, supported by fine tannins that do their job perfectly”

WinePilot – 93 Points
“Cabernet Sauvignon dominant (87%) with Malbec (13%). A new addition to the portfolio showing the shoulders and sturdy reliable frame of Cabernet with lift and high tones of Malbec. The Malbec sits atop the Cabernet a bit like a toddler riding high on dad’s shoulders, the whole world at its feet. Here Malbec shows in hibiscus florals, raspberry compote and wild rosehip and elevates the more brooding Cabernet blackberry and subtle herbal shades. Picked thyme leaves and oregano followed by vanilla bean, cassia bark and cinnamon. It’s charms and disarms, it’s cheeky in its zesty freshness with grainy tannins and a real succulence to the acidity. The wine spends 18 months in French barriques but you’d hardly know. Drink now and you’d be hard pressed to stop at a glass. Serve with popcorn chicken bites and a good movie, you’ll be too busy drinking to chit chat to anyone. Yum”

Tasting Notes 

• Colour: Deep crimson red with dark purple tones.
• Aromatics: Blackcurrant, plum and blackberry, with hints of cocoa, dried herbs, spice and a subtle cedary note.
• Palate: Medium to full-bodied, smooth and generous. Cabernet Sauvignon gives the wine its cassis, structure and fine tannin line, while Malbec fills out the palate with dark plum, berry fruit and a soft, rounded texture.
• Finish: Dry and savoury, with lingering dark fruit, gentle spice, cocoa and fine tannins.

About the Wine

Cabernet Malbec is a natural fit for Margaret River. Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the region’s great strengths, bringing structure, fragrance and long blackcurrant flavour. Malbec works beautifully alongside it, adding colour, plush fruit, body and a slightly more generous feel.

The result is a red that still feels distinctly Margaret River, but with a little extra softness and immediate appeal. It is a great dinner wine, especially when you want something with flavour and depth that does not need years in the cellar before it becomes enjoyable.

Wine Details

Producer: Jilyara
Range: Heath Road
Wine: Cabernet Malbec
Vintage: 2022
Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec
Style: Dry red, medium to full-bodied
Closure: Screw cap

Serving and Cellaring 

Serve: 16 to 18°C

If the bottle has been sitting at warm room temperature, place it in the fridge for around 15 minutes before serving. This helps keep the fruit fresh and the tannins smooth.

Decant: 30 to 45 minutes will help the dark fruit, spice and savoury notes open up.

Cellar: Drinking well now, or cellar for another three to six years if you enjoy a more savoury, integrated style.

Food Pairing 

• Chargrilled steak with pepper sauce
• Roast lamb with rosemary and garlic
• Slow-cooked beef cheek or short ribs
• Mushroom and beef ragu
• Barbecued sausages or burgers
• Hard cheeses such as cheddar, manchego or Comté
• Roast vegetables with herbs and olive oil

FAQ 🧐

What does Cabernet Malbec taste like?
Cabernet Malbec usually combines blackcurrant, plum, dark berries, savoury spice and fine tannins. Cabernet gives structure and length, while Malbec adds colour, softness and plush fruit.

Is this wine full-bodied?
It sits in the medium to full-bodied range. It has plenty of flavour and depth, but the Malbec helps make the palate feel smooth and approachable.

Is it sweet?
No. This is a dry red wine. The ripe plum and dark berry flavours give it generosity, but the finish is dry and savoury.

Do I need to decant it?
It is not essential, but a short decant is recommended. Around 30 to 45 minutes will help the wine open and soften.

Who will enjoy this wine?
It is ideal for Cabernet drinkers who enjoy blackcurrant, structure and savoury depth, but want a slightly softer and more fruit-forward style.