2015 Cullen Diana Madeline Cabernet Merlot Magnum 1.5L

98 Points - James Halliday, Halliday Wine Companion

“It is inappropriate to use the word elegant in describing the wine, simply because it is on another, higher level. The fragrant bouquet, the silky palate and perfectly shaped tannins of the finish are unique to this wine, which is made with endless care and patience by Vanya Cullen and her team. Why not 99 points? The oak is still a touch obvious.”

95 Points - Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate

“The 2015 Diana Madeline is lighter in frame and mid-palate weight than the 2014 tasted beside it. This offers us a glimpse of something altogether more herbal and mineral, with graphite, kelp, raspberry pip and gravelly tannins that frame the finish. I like it a lot. It has many, many years to go. Could the wines of the 2015 vintage finally be emerging from their shells, a mere 10 years from harvest? The blend here is 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.”

94 Points - Neal Martin, Vinous

“The 2015 Diana Madeline from Cullens Wines comes from 50-year-old biodynamically grown vines cultivated on granite/sandy soils. Here the Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with 11% Merlot, 1% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. The aromatics take a little while to coalesce, offering a mixture of red and black fruit, undergrowth and touches of white mint. I appreciate the pliancy of the tannins, the extremely well-judged acidity and the harmonious, understated finish. Hints of wild mint and thyme linger on the aftertaste. There is a serious intellectual aspect to this wonderful Cabernet that will give pleasure over the next 25-30 years.”

93 Points - James Suckling

“Lovely sweet-tobacco, forest-flower and currant aromas. Full body and chewy, juicy tannins that turn savory and delicious. Blend of 87% cabernet sauvignon, 11% merlot, 1% merlot, 1% cabernet franc. Drink or hold. From biodynamically grown grapes. Screw cap.”