This new release of our Amber wine is a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc selected from our certified Biodynamic vineyard. The wine was left on the skins and fermented partially before being pressed off. The skin maceration went from 9 days to 44 days depending on the parcel. The fruit was processed in different vessels: open fermenters, closed tanks as well as amphorae. This explains some of the complexity and the many layers of this wine. We look at it being a natural step in creative as well as artisanal winemaking.
2018
Cullen Amber
This new release of our Amber wine is a blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc selected from our certified Biodynamic vineyard. The wine was left on the skins and fermented partially before being pressed off. The skin maceration went from 9 days to 44 days depending on the parcel. The fruit was processed in different vessels: open fermenters, closed tanks as well as amphorae. This explains some of the complexity and the many layers of this wine. We look at it being a natural step in creative as well as artisanal winemaking.
$39.00 /750ml
| VINTAGE | 2018 |
|---|---|
| VOLUME | 750 mL |
| REGION / COUNTRY | West Australia, Australia |
| VARIETAL | Sauvignon Blanc |
| ALC % | 12.30% |
| Tasting Note | This wine has a textural and concentrated palate with great length and persistence. Flavours of orange, toffee and gentle saltiness on the finish. It is a tannic wine. This new release of our Amber wine is made exclusively of Sauvignon Blanc selected from our certified Biodynamic Cullen vineyard. The grapes were left on skins and fermented partially before being pressed. The skin contact went from 7 days to 18 days depending on the parcel. The fruit was processed in different vessels: open fermenters, closed tank as well as amphora. This explains some of the complexity and the many layers of this wine. We look at it being a natural step in creative as well as artisanal winemaking. |
| Accolades | 91/100 – Robert Parker’s Wine Advocate (2014 vintage) “Before I leave Australia, have to give a shout out to this utterly fabulous wine from Cullen Wines…” – Nigella Lawson |
2018 Vintage
Growing season conditions
During the growing season, traditional wet weather conditions prevailed through the winter months. Rainfall was close to 20% above 15 year average. 565mm, average 474mm.
Spring/Summer conditions
Great spring conditions for the dry grown estate, good soil moisture reserves, followed by warm and dry conditions in November contributed to excellent conditions for flowering and fruit-set. This also contributed to healthy canopy growth and good shoot extension, leading into the summer months. 20% below average rainfall. 148mm, average 187mm.
Summer/Harvest conditions
The beginning of summer set the vines up well for the remainder of the season. Average temperatures through December and above average rainfall allowed for canopies to continue to function well, soil moisture reserves to be kept up and berry development to remain on track.
The remaining months of summer, January and February, leading into the 2018 vintage had temperatures which were below average, however this allowed for very effective photosynthesis within the canopies and consistent even ripening of the fruit. The vines were not impacted by any severe heat or moisture stress. Average daily maximums through January and February were 25 degrees, 1 to 2 degrees below average, and only 5 days above 30 degrees.
Yields
Healthy, balanced yields (average to above average) were experienced across all varieties which was helped by the late spring conditions. The moderate temperatures through the summer provided for excellent fruit composure, with great intensity of flavor.
Stand out varieties
Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon (exceptional), Malbec & Merlot. Excellent vintage for concentration, balance and perfume.
