Cullen Grace Madeline 2023

Cullen Wines, located in the renowned Margaret River region of Western Australia, is a pioneer of biodynamic and organic viticulture. The ‘Grace Madeline’ is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, named after Vanya Cullen's mother, and it beautifully reflects the winery’s commitment to terroir and sustainability. The 2023 vintage, crafted under biodynamic principles, offers a fresh and vibrant expression of Margaret River’s cool maritime climate. The combination of Sauvignon Blanc’s bright fruit and Semillon’s texture and depth creates a wine of elegance and complexity.

Appearance: Pale straw with a slight greenish hue, showcasing the wine’s youth and freshness.

Aroma: Vibrant and aromatic, with fresh notes of lemon zest, lime, and green apple, complemented by tropical hints of passionfruit and guava. Subtle undertones of flint and wet stone bring a mineral edge, while delicate herbal notes like cut grass and lemongrass add complexity.

Taste: Medium-bodied, with a lively interplay of citrus like lemon, lime, and grapefruit balanced by stone fruit flavours like white peach and nectarine. The Semillon provides texture and weight, giving the wine a creamy mouthfeel, while the Sauvignon Blanc offers zesty acidity and brightness. There’s a distinctive minerality on the palate, reflecting the biodynamic farming and coastal influence. Subtle oak aging adds a touch of spice and depth without overshadowing the wine’s fresh, fruit-forward profile.

Finish: Long and refreshing, with lingering notes of citrus, green apple, and a clean, mineral-driven finish. The wine’s vibrant acidity ensures a crisp and mouthwatering end, while the subtle texture from the Semillon offers elegance and balance.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs beautifully with grilled snapper with a lemon butter sauce, where the citrus and mineral notes of the wine enhance the delicate flavours of the fish. It would also complement asparagus risotto or fresh oysters, with the wine’s crisp acidity and minerality cutting through the richness of the dish while lifting its freshness.