Xanadu Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winemaking and Drinking

The Xanadu Estate, situated in the heart of the renowned Margaret River wine region of Western Australia, is celebrated for producing some of the finest wines in the country. Among its standout offerings is the Xanadu Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021, a wine that embodies the exceptional qualities of this prestigious estate and the unique terroir of the Margaret River region.

Vineyard and Terroir

The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for the 2021 vintage were sourced from Xanadu’s prime vineyards located in the Wallcliffe sub region of Margaret River. This area is known for its gravelly loam soils, which provide excellent drainage and contribute to the concentration and complexity of the fruit. The Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters, creates ideal growing conditions that allow the grapes to ripen slowly and evenly, enhancing their flavor profile.

Winemaking 

The 2021 vintage was a testament to the perfect balance of traditional and modern winemaking techniques. Hand picked at optimal ripeness, the grapes underwent a meticulous selection process to ensure only the highest quality fruit was used. Fermentation took place in small, temperature controlled stainless steel tanks to maintain the purity and intensity of the fruit flavors. Post fermentation, the wine was aged for 14 months in French oak barrels, 40% of which were new, to impart subtle oak characteristics and refine the tannins.

Tasting Notes

On the nose, the Xanadu Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is remarkably aromatic, presenting a bouquet of dark fruits such as blackcurrant and blackberry, intertwined with hints of violet, mint, and subtle nuances of tobacco and cedar from the oak aging. This complexity continues on the palate, where rich, concentrated flavors of ripe black fruits are complemented by notes of dark chocolate, espresso, and a touch of vanilla. The wine boasts a full bodied structure, with finely grained tannins and a well-balanced acidity, leading to a long, elegant finish.

Awards and Recognition

The Xanadu Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 has already made a significant impact on both domestic and international wine stages. It has been awarded several prestigious accolades, highlighting its outstanding quality and craftsmanship. Among these, it received a Gold Medal at the 2022 Margaret River Wine Show, a testament to its excellence within its home region. Internationally, the wine was honored with a Gold Medal at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2023, and received 95 points from renowned wine critic James Halliday, further solidifying its status as a world-class Cabernet Sauvignon.

The Xanadu Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a true representation of the Margaret River’s viticultural prowess and the Xanadu Estate’s unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines. From its meticulously managed vineyards to its carefully crafted winemaking process, every aspect of this wine reflects the dedication to quality and passion for winemaking that has been the hallmark of Xanadu Wines since its inception.