The 2024 Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot is the flagship wine of Cullen Wines and one of Margaret River's most celebrated Cabernet-based blends. Sourced from the original biodynamically farmed estate vineyard planted in 1971, this release reflects a warm, dry growing season that produced small berries with exceptional concentration and depth. The blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot delivers a wine of remarkable purity, structure and vineyard expression.
On the palate, it is full-bodied yet beautifully poised, with fine-grained tannins and vibrant natural acidity framing layers of cassis, mulberry, dark cherry and plum. Notes of cedar, cigar box, cocoa, violet and subtle spice add complexity, while 14 months of maturation in French oak provides structure without overshadowing the fruit. The texture is seamless and refined, leading to a long, persistent finish marked by dark berry fruit, graphite-like minerality and savoury detail.
Ben's Recommendation: At Wine More Cellars, this is an outstanding Margaret River Cabernet blend for collectors and lovers of Australia's great cellar-worthy reds. While already showing impressive balance and detail, its fine structure and concentration suggest a long future ahead. Enjoy with decanting or cellar confidently for 15–25 years. Pair with roast lamb, beef Wellington, grilled rib-eye steak, venison or mature hard cheeses.
