Leeuwin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Art Series, Margaret River, W. Australia – 2019

Leeuwin Estate’s flagship Cabernet has rather remained in the shade of its more prestigious sibling, Art Series Chardonnay. But in the last two or three vintages its quality seems to be hitting new highs, and this wine from the cooler 2019 vintage is right up there competing with other great Margaret River Cabs such as Moss Wood and Cullen. 

2019 was a sensational vintage in Margaret River, with mild late-vintage weather allowing for the development of excellent flavour and tannin profiles in the red wines. The wine is a blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Malbec. It was matured in 50% new French oak barrels for 22 months before bottling. 

It is perfumed and fragrant; herbal notes of bay leaf, clove and dried sage combine with opulent blackcurrant and Morello cherry aromas.

In the mouth its is generous and complex, with many layers of  dark forest fruits, cacao, cracked coffee and anise. Vibrancy and energy is underlined with a mineral and graphite acid line and a fine, elegant finish. 13.5% alcohol.

“The 2019 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon has admirable fruit presence in the mouth. As an immediate follow on from the great 2018 vintage, the 2019 vintage was cooler and wetter, but the average quality across the region was excellent. In many corners, the quality is argued as being on par with the 2018; it comes down to a matter of preference. Here, the wine is elegant and fine, very aromatic. It’s an excellent wine and a clear statement about the direction and refinement of the Cabernet program at Leeuwin.” 96+/100pts Wine Advocate