
2021 Clairault Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon
Blend
95% Cabernet Sauvignon
5% Cabernet Franc
Vineyard
Clairault Vineyard, Wilyabrup
Winemaking Note
The fruit is harvested, de-stemmed and crushed, so that each berry is just split. This is to ensure minimal berry degradation during the fermentation process and to promote fresh, clean flavour production by our very specifically selected yeast strain. Our ferments are, by industry standards, cool and gentle, allowing slower, more controlled extraction of tannin and flavour. The wine is pumped over three times a day and then judiciously backed off as the wine develops.
This wine was on skins in the fermenter for 14 days, before gentle pressing and barrelling down. The result is clean, pure fruit flavours, boasting supple yet powerful tannin. The wine was aged in French oak barriques for 10 months before the wine was removed from barrels, clarified and bottled.
Vintage Conditions
The 2021 vintage began with a mild spring and sufficient rainfall. The La Niña weather system created a strong cyclone season in the north, resulting in unusual conditions throughout summer. December and January were warm and dry by comparison, and February saw large rain events and high humidity. High attention to detail was required in the vineyard to alleviate disease pressure, and those who put the extra work in, reaped the rewards.
Aroma
Graphite, glazed cherries, black currants and cocoa nib..
Palate
A driven palate of black and blue fruits, resting on a pristine lattice work of fine fruit tannin and bold flavours of black cherries, cedar and liquorice on the finish.
Cellaring
Enjoy for freshness now or cellar up to 10 years for added complexity.
Alcohol
14%