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Cellar for up to 11 years. No need to decant before serving. Dr Tom Cullity founded Vasse Felix, Margaret River’s first winery, in 1962 after recognising the region’s incredible potential for winemaking. The area benefits from a Mediterranean-type climate with summer temperatures moderated by the nearby Indian and Southern Oceans. Today the estate has four prime vineyards across the region and primarily produces cool climate Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. This is Vasse Felix’s classic Cabernet which is crafted from the estate’s top Wilyabrup vines grown on gravelly loam soils and cooled by ocean breezes. This was the very first red wine to be made in Margaret River and it has been made every vintage since 1972. Wilyabrup is situated in the north of Margaret River by the coast, conditions which help to produce concentrated yet balanced Cabernets with ample complexity. Each vineyard plot is fermented separately using wild yeasts and an extended maceration period helps to express the authentic character of each site. The young wine spends 18 months ageing in small French oak barrels before bottling. The result is a dark and handsome Cabernet with perfect poise and balance thanks to a bright streak of acidity and silky smooth texture. On the nose there are seductive aromas of cassis, woodsmoke and mint while the palate is dominated by ripe crushed berries, dried herbs and tobacco leaf notes.