The History
Xanadu Wines, a jewel in the crown of Australian viticulture, is located in the heart of Margaret River, Western Australia. Established in 1977 by Dr. John Lagan, the winery was named after the mystical city in Samuel Taylor Coleridge's poem "Kubla Khan," reflecting Lagan's vision of creating a paradise for wine lovers. Dr. Lagan, an Irishman with a passion for winemaking, saw the potential in the Margaret River region for producing exceptional wines due to its ideal climate and soil conditions.
From its humble beginnings, Xanadu has grown into one of Australia's premier wine producers. The winery underwent significant expansion and modernization in the 1990s and early 2000s, ensuring it remained at the forefront of the industry. Today, Xanadu Wines is renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, and it remains a benchmark for excellence in the Margaret River region.
The Vineyards
Xanadu's vineyards are situated in the picturesque Margaret River, an area celebrated for its unique terroir. The region's Mediterranean climate, characterized by cool sea breezes and warm, sunny days, is perfect for growing a variety of grape varietals. Xanadu's vineyards span over 65 hectares, with each block meticulously managed to optimize the expression of the terroir.
The diverse soil types, ranging from sandy loam to gravelly clay, contribute to the complexity and depth of Xanadu's wines. The vineyards are planted with a variety of grapes, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Shiraz. Sustainable viticulture practices are a cornerstone of Xanadu's philosophy, with a focus on enhancing soil health, conserving water, and promoting biodiversity.
Winemaker Glen Goodall
The Winemaker
At the helm of Xanadu's winemaking team is Glenn Goodall, a highly respected and experienced winemaker who has been with the winery since 1999. Goodall's passion for winemaking and his deep understanding of the Margaret River terroir are evident in every bottle produced at Xanadu. Under his guidance, Xanadu has garnered a reputation for crafting wines that are not only technically excellent but also expressive and true to their origins.
Goodall's approach to winemaking is hands-on and detail-oriented. He emphasizes minimal intervention in the winery, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine through. This philosophy, combined with his innovative techniques and dedication to quality, has helped Xanadu Wines achieve numerous accolades and a loyal following among wine enthusiasts.
The Wines
Xanadu's portfolio showcases a wide range of wines, each reflecting the unique terroir of the Margaret River region. Some of the standout wines include:
Cabernet Sauvignon: Xanadu's flagship varietal, the Cabernet Sauvignon, is celebrated for its elegance, structure, and complexity. The wine typically exhibits rich flavors of blackcurrant, dark chocolate, and fine tannins, making it a favorite among critics and consumers alike.
Chardonnay: Xanadu's Chardonnay is another star in its lineup, known for its balance of fruit intensity and refreshing acidity. The wine often features notes of citrus, stone fruit, and subtle oak, delivering a refined and sophisticated tasting experience.
Sauvignon Blanc Semillon: This classic Margaret River blend combines the vibrant acidity of Sauvignon Blanc with the richness of Semillon, resulting in a wine that is fresh, aromatic, and perfectly balanced. It's an excellent representation of the region's white wine prowess.
Shiraz: Xanadu's Shiraz showcases the versatility of Margaret River's terroir. With its peppery spice, red berry flavors, and silky tannins, this wine is a testament to the region's ability to produce exceptional red wines beyond Cabernet Sauvignon.
Awards and Recognition
Xanadu Wines has consistently been recognized for its outstanding quality, earning numerous awards and accolades both domestically and internationally. Some of the notable achievements include:
James Halliday's Wine Companion: Xanadu has frequently received high ratings and accolades from James Halliday, one of Australia's most respected wine critics. The winery has often been awarded a five-star rating, indicating its status as one of the top wineries in the country.
Decanter World Wine Awards: Xanadu Wines has achieved significant success at the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards, winning multiple gold medals and trophies. These accolades underscore the winery's commitment to excellence and its ability to compete on the global stage.
Royal Melbourne Wine Awards: Xanadu's wines have also been celebrated at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, one of Australia's most esteemed wine competitions. The winery's Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, in particular, have received top honors, further cementing its reputation for quality.
Xanadu Wines is a testament to the potential of the Margaret River region and the vision of its founders. From its inception in the late 1970s to its current status as a leading Australian winery, Xanadu has consistently demonstrated a commitment to excellence in every aspect of its operation. Under the expert guidance of winemaker Glenn Goodall, the winery continues to produce wines that are celebrated for their quality, complexity, and expression of terroir.
