Woodlands Margaret Tasting Notes 👅

Colour: Deep crimson with ruby hues.

Aromatics: Perfumed and lifted, with violet florals, cassis, red berries, dried herbs, and a subtle licorice spice.

Palate: Concentrated blackcurrant and mulberry fruit meet graphite, cocoa, and savoury oak. Hints of sumac and leather unfold over time. The tannins are silky yet persistent, bringing both elegance and longevity.

Finish: Exceptionally long, with bright acidity and mineral drive carrying the flavours.

Winemaker’s Note ℹ️

“The 2019 ‘Margaret’ is a structured powerhouse that still retains finesse—an expression of Woodlands’ signature style. Cabernet Sauvignon leads the way, supported by Merlot and Malbec to build a layered, complete palate. We see this as a wine that will age gracefully for decades, becoming more refined and expressive over time.”

Sustainability & Natural Practices ℹ️

Woodlands uses organic farming principles, low-intervention winemaking and a hands-off approach in the winery to ensure the wines reflect the true character of their vineyards in Wilyabrup. The vineyard is hand-pruned and hand-picked, with minimal additives used during production.

Storage & Serving Tips 🌡️

• Serving Temperature: Serve at 16–18°C to allow the full spectrum of flavours and texture to emerge. If being stored at room temperature, place in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving.
• Storage: Best cellared in a dark, cool place with stable humidity.
• Decanting: Decant for 1–2 hours before serving to allow the wine to open up.
• Aging Potential: Drink from 2032–2038 or beyond for peak complexity.

FAQ Wine Terms 🤔

Q: What does it mean when a wine has “structure”?
A: Structure refers to the wine’s framework, often built from tannins, acidity, and alcohol. In this wine, ripe tannins provide grip and definition that will soften with age.

Q: What are ‘mineral’ tannins?
A: Mineral tannins describe a fine, chalky texture often associated with well-drained gravel soils like those in Wilyabrup. They contribute elegance and length to the wine.

Q: Why does this wine benefit from aging?
A: Over time, the tannins soften, fruit flavours evolve into more savoury notes, and the wine develops greater depth and integration—making it smoother and more complex.

Q: What’s the role of blending grapes like Merlot and Malbec?
A: Merlot softens the structure and adds plushness, while Malbec contributes spice, colour, and richness. Together, they support and round out the Cabernet.

Food Pairing Suggestions 🍽️

• Lamb Leg – Rich, savoury meats elevate the wine’s dark fruit and spice.
• Pappardelle with Mushroom Ragù – Earthy mushrooms and pasta bring out the wine’s umami depth.
• Beef Wellington – A classic, luxurious pairing for a wine of structure and class.

Technical Details

Grape Variety: 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 8% Malbec
Region: Wilyabrup, Margaret River, Western Australia
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Screw Cap
Aging Potential: Best from 2032 to 2038+
Farming: Organic practices, hand-harvested
Winemaking: Minimal intervention, aged in French oak

Margaret River Wine Region

Nestled in the southwestern corner of Australia, Margaret River is celebrated for its exceptional wines and stunning landscapes. This picturesque region has secured a prominent place in the global wine industry, attracting enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. This blog post delves into the secrets behind Margaret River’s viticultural success, highlighting key wines, the impact of the climate, award-winning wineries, and how these outstanding wines compare to others across Australia.

What Wine is Margaret River Famous For?

Margaret River is renowned for producing a diverse range of wines that reflect the region’s unique landscape. Among the standout offerings are the robust Cabernet Sauvignons, elegant Chardonnays, and exceptional blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The combination of the region’s Mediterranean climate, fertile soils, and refreshing ocean breezes creates an ideal environment for cultivating grapes of remarkable quality.

Cabernet Sauvignon: The King of Reds

Cabernet Sauvignon is perhaps the most iconic varietal of Margaret River, often recognised for its depth, complexity, and longevity. The region’s unique blend of well-drained soils and climate allows for the production of Cabernet wines that are rich in dark fruit flavours, often accompanied by notes of eucalyptus and mint. These wines are known for their structured tannins and potential for aging, making them favourites among collectors.

Chardonnay: A Class Apart

Margaret River’s Chardonnays are celebrated for their exceptional balance of fruit intensity and elegant acidity. Winemakers in the region skillfully harness the cool ocean breezes to produce wines that showcase vibrant citrus and stone fruit flavours, often complemented by subtle oak influences. This combination results in Chardonnays that are both complex and approachable, with a refreshing finish that invites further sipping.

Diverse Styles of Chardonnay

One of the defining features of Chardonnay in Margaret River is the range of styles that emerge from the region, each reflecting the winemaker’s philosophy and the specific vineyard conditions.

1. Fruit-Forward and Crisp

Some Margaret River Chardonnays emphasise fresh fruit characteristics, displaying vibrant notes of lemon, lime, peach, and nectarine. These wines often undergo cool fermentation in stainless steel to preserve their bright acidity and fruit purity. Some wineries may use older oak barrels to add some complexity, but the oak itself blends in with the wine and they present a clean, crisp profile that makes them highly refreshing and perfect for casual drinking. These styles are particularly popular for their approachability and are excellent companions to seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.

2. Malolactic Fermentation (MLF)

Many Margaret River winemakers employ malolactic fermentation to add complexity to their Chardonnays. This secondary fermentation process converts sharper malic acid into softer lactic acid, creating a creamier mouthfeel and a rounder texture. As a result, wines that undergo MLF often display buttery notes and a luscious richness alongside their fruit flavours. These Chardonnays can exhibit aromas of vanilla and toasty oak, making them delightful choices for pairing with richer dishes like roasted chicken or creamy pasta.

3. Oak-Aged Elegance

The use of oak barrels is a hallmark of many Margaret River Chardonnays, adding layers of complexity and depth to the wines. Winemakers often choose French oak to impart subtle spice and toasty notes without overpowering the fruit. The degree of oak influence can vary, with some producers opting for full barrel fermentation and extended lees contact to enhance creaminess and mouthfeel. These wines often feature a harmonious integration of oak and fruit, showcasing flavours of ripe pear, citrus, and hints of almond or hazelnut. A well-structured, oak-aged Chardonnay can age gracefully, developing greater complexity over time.

4. Chablis-Inspired Styles

In addition to the more opulent Chardonnays, some winemakers in Margaret River are inspired by the styles of Chablis, France. These Chardonnays focus on minerality, crispness, and a steely elegance, often showcasing flinty and citrus-driven profiles. Minimal to no oak is used which allows the purity of the fruit and the terroir to shine, resulting in wines that are vibrant and refreshing. These styles are particularly appealing to those who appreciate a more restrained approach to Chardonnay, emphasising the varietal’s natural acidity and terroir.

Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon: A Perfect Blend

The region’s Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon blends are a testament to Margaret River’s versatility. The bright, herbaceous notes of Sauvignon Blanc pair beautifully with the textured, citrus-driven Semillon, resulting in wines that are both refreshing and food-friendly. These blends often exhibit tropical fruit characteristics, with a crisp acidity that makes them perfect companions for seafood and summer dishes.

The Dance of Climate and Grapes

Margaret River’s winemaking excellence is closely tied to its remarkably stable climate, setting it apart from the more extreme weather conditions found on Australia’s east coast. While the east coast grapples with the fluctuations of La Niña and El Niño, leading to unpredictable weather patterns, Margaret River benefits from a temperate and consistent climate. Unlike some wine regions that face unpredictable weather, Margaret River enjoys a high level of climate stability. This consistency is key to producing wines with a distinct regional character year after year. Mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers allow grapes to ripen slowly, developing complex flavours that reflect the terroir.

The Indian and Southern Oceans play a crucial role in moderating Margaret River’s climate. Their influence helps regulate temperature extremes, providing a more stable environment for grape growing. This moderation ensures that grapes avoid the stress of rapid temperature changes, leading to more even ripening and enhanced flavour development. The stable climate of Margaret River results in consistently high-quality vintages, a trait highly valued in winemaking. Winemakers can plan and execute their practices effectively, ensuring that wines consistently reflect the region’s unique characteristics. This reliability has made Margaret River a go-to destination for quality wines in Australia and beyond.

In contrast to the east coast’s more variable climate, Margaret River’s stability provides a significant advantage. While the east coast may experience dramatic shifts in weather, Margaret River offers a more reliable environment for grape growing. This consistency contributes to the production of wines with a distinctive and recognisable character, making Margaret River a standout region in Australia’s wine landscape.

Award-Winning Elegance

Margaret River’s list of award-winning wines is extensive, highlighting the region’s commitment to excellence. Wineries such as Fraser Gallop, Xanadu, Amelia Park, Domaine Naturaliste, Leeuwin Estate, Cullen, Pierro, and Moss Wood consistently receive recognition for their exceptional craftsmanship. These wineries blend innovation with traditional techniques, creating wines that regularly earn accolades on the international stage.

Innovations in Winemaking

The winemaking community in Margaret River is characterised by a spirit of innovation. Many wineries experiment with sustainable practices, organic viticulture, and new winemaking techniques, ensuring the region remains at the forefront of the industry. This commitment to innovation, combined with a deep respect for tradition, results in wines that are both reflective of the region’s heritage and forward-thinking.

Margaret River holds a special place even in a country renowned for its wine. The region’s wines, particularly its Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, are often considered benchmarks for their varietals. The unique mix of climate, geography, and winemaking expertise gives Margaret River wines a distinctive edge, making them a top choice for both connoisseurs and casual wine lovers. The international acclaim for Margaret River wines has not gone unnoticed. Many of the region’s wineries have participated in global competitions, consistently earning medals and accolades. This recognition further solidifies Margaret River’s reputation as a premier wine-producing region, attracting attention from wine lovers around the world.

Wine Tourism: A Growing Attraction

In addition to its exceptional wines, Margaret River has become a popular destination for wine tourism. Visitors flock to the region to explore its stunning vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and indulge in gourmet food experiences. The region’s restaurants and cellar doors often feature locally sourced produce, showcasing the best of Western Australian cuisine alongside its world-class wines. Margaret River offers more than just wine. The region is also renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine beaches, and lush forests. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, surfing, and exploring national parks, all while immersing themselves in the stunning natural beauty of the area. This combination of wine and nature creates a unique experience for visitors, making Margaret River a must-visit destination.

Margaret River stands out as a beacon of winemaking excellence in Australia. With its exceptional wines, stable climate, and commitment to quality, the region has earned its place on the world stage. As you explore the diverse offerings of Margaret River, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of flavours, innovative practices, and breathtaking landscapes that define this remarkable wine region. Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Margaret River invites you to experience its unique charm and extraordinary wines.

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