Cullen Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon

Cullen Wines is a certified biodynamic, carbon neutral and naturally powered estate, with their philosophy summed up in three simple words; ‘Quality, Integrity and Sustainability’.
It is one of the oldest and most awarded family wineries in Western Australia’s famous Margaret River region. First established in 1971 by Dr Kevin and Diana Cullen and now run by their daughter Vanya, the winery has built an outstanding reputation for fine certified biodynamic wines that receive critical national and international acclaim. In 2019, celebrating 30 years at the helm, Vanya received double Winemaker of the Year honours at both the Australian Women in Wine Awards and the Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

Although best known for their red blends and top Chardonnay, I have always been a fan of this Bordeaux blend. It has an elegance and balance that is usually lacking in pure Aussie Sauvignon Blanc. It has the freshness and crunchy, zingy flavours but the Semillon reigns it in and adds subtle savoury complexity. As such it is a beautiful wine to drink with fresh seafood and salads; it doesn’t overpower the food but creates an experience which is more than the sum of it’s parts – the magic of great wine.

Although completely delicious right now (it has 4 years age), it is a wine that rewards cellaring. I have kept these for 5 years or so and they develop more complex, savoury, mineral layers and turn into truly exceptional wines.