2009 Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot

98 Points, Jeremy Oliver, Australian Wine Annual 2012
A superlative wine, beautifully balanced, measured and focused, already revealing remarkable complexity and character. A pristine, floral and heady bouquet of violets, cassis, dark cherries and blackberries knit with cedar/vanilla oak and backed by nuances of briar and meaty complexity precedes an unctuous, long and seamless palate that remains gentle and willowy. Underpinned by very fine, powdery al dente tannin, it's deeply layered and flavoured, finishing with exemplary balance. Drink 2029–2039.

98 Points, Tyson Stelzer, WBM October 2011
Elegantly restrained at just 12.5% and yet impeccably ripe, with poised fruit in coiled suspense; immaculately crafted and unquestionably high-ranking among the greatest and longest-lived Cullens ever.

96 Points, Huon Hooke, The Real Review
This star blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and malbec is a masterpiece of elegance in ’09. Bright red-berry aromas with no sign of greenness despite early-picked low alcohol. It's wonderfully intense, with effortless power and smooth tannins.

Five Stars, Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Age Epicure
Margaret River's premier cabernet merlot is outstanding in 2009. Aromas of florals, blackcurrant, briar, meat-stocky richness, a hint of liquorice – it adds up to lovely cabernet varietal purity. Oak has all but disappeared, and the very fine palate is fresh and intense, yet very subtle. Ultra-fine tannins back it up beautifully. Have it with spit-roasted lamb.