“A 60/40 blend, 80% harvested on fruit days, 20% on flower days; 25% barrel-fermented, all of which was sauvignon blanc; this wine shares the minerality evident in the Cullen Vineyard, but the unsweetened lemon juice flavours highlight the minerality; has awe-inspiring drive and length. Screwcap.”95 points – James Halliday Australian Wine Companion 2011. In the early 1960's detailed climatic studies of various Australian regions revealed that during the winegrowing season, Margaret River's climate was similar to that of Bordeaux, particularly Pomerol. The conclusion that Margaret River was ideal for viticulture was first tested in Wilyabrup in 1966, when Diana and Kevin Cullen planted a trial acre of vines. The encouraging results led to the couple planting more and Cullen Wines (still family owned) has since evolved into one of Australia’s finest wine producers making exceptional wine biodynamically and sourced exclusively from Cullen Estate and Mangan Vineyard. Here’s their magnificent Mangan Vineyard release which leads the way amongst WA SSB’s and has picked up some magnificent early reviews from Australia! Cullen varies the ratio of Sauvignon to Semillon in a given vintage according to how these varieties perform in that vintage. This thus comprises 60% Semillon and 40% Sauvignon Blanc.25% of the wine was barrel fermented, all of which was Sauvignon Blanc, a variety that benefits from such maturation. The natural fruit freshness of the Semillon was retained. It is characterised in particular by its linear structure and minerality. The bouquet has freshly cut grass, lime and white flower. The palate is very focused- its mineral characters blend perfectly with the lovely lemon flavours that are a feature of high quality Semillon- firm, integrated and of great length. Drink over the next 7 years with oysters, scallops or fish or cold Turkey! A truly versatile white but for only the finest celebrations. And at only 11.5% abv, it will not knock your socks off. It is as crisp and clear as tomorrow morning, and is one of Australia’s true classics!