Cullen Grace Madeline Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon 2023

75% Sauvignon Blanc and 25% Semillon, planted on their own roots in 1976 on the Cullen Estate. These vines are certified biodynamic and carbon neutral. It is fitting that the wine be named after Grace Madeline, Diana Madeline’s mother. Grace, originally from London, lived most of her life in Tasmania and was a suffragette, who loved nature as well as being mother to three daughters.

The first blend of this type was made at Cullen Wines in 1979, from Cullen Estate fruit and it has become one of the flagship blends of the region since that time. The phenolic tension and fine tannins comes in part from overnight skin contact and texture from barrel fermentation and concrete egg fermentation. The average time in oak for the Sauvignon Blanc after natural yeast, fermentation, with no additions of acid yeast, is 8 months in 85% new, biodynamic puncheons. 

There are light, pretty aromas of citrus, pear, orange, mango curry leaf, slate and sea salt. The palate reflects, with vibrant clean acidity, dried pear, marigolds, elderflower and curry leaf. A wine with great balance, texture and immense potential.