Woodlands Wilyabrup Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2021

Founders David Watson and wife Heather had spectacular success with the cabernets he made in ’79 and the early ’80s. Commuting from Perth while raising a family became too much and for some years the grapes from Woodlands were sold to other Margaret River producers. With the advent of sons Stuart and Andrew in ’02–05 (Stuart primarily responsible for winemaking), the estate bounced back to pre-eminence, expanding with the purchase of the 17ha Woodlands Brook Vineyard in ’07. The top-end wines primarily come from the original Woodlands Vineyard, where the now-certified organic vines are 50+yr.

The Wilyabrup Valley wines are sourced from a combination of Woodlands estate vineyards and other vineyards within the Wilyabrup Valley.

The 2021 Wilyabrup Valley blend comprises 61% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 11% Malbec, and has matured in French oak for 16 months. In the glass the wine displays a vibrant garnet. Bright crimson in colour, the nose shows fresh blackcurrant, blackberry jam, fragrant violet, and fine grained oak notes. The palate has a very aristocratic feel to it. Medium bodied but mouth filling, mellow red and blue fruits feature, violet adding to the mix. A feature here is the long cool finish, with lingering tannin. To appreciate this wine fully, we suggest opening one hour before drinking. To be enjoyed most between 2020-2026.

Woodlands Wilyabrup Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2021
All the regional aromas and flavours at play, from violets, wakame, cassis and chocolate to mulberries, with a distinct ironstone character too. The fuller-bodied palate comes strewn with tannins, the texture of cocoa powder, and somewhat drying on the finish. Just needs a bit more time in bottle.
93 Points
Jane Faulkner
Published 08 April 2024