Established in 1973, Woodlands is one of the original five pioneering vineyards of Margaret River and has played a defining role in establishing the region as one of the world's great Cabernet Sauvignon terroirs. Situated in the prestigious Wilyabrup Valley, the estate is family-owned by the Watson family, who continue to farm the original dry-grown vineyards planted from cuttings taken from neighbouring Moss Wood. Today, under winemaker Stuart Watson, Woodlands crafts small-production wines that combine meticulous vineyard management with restrained winemaking, allowing the exceptional gravelly loam soils and maritime climate of Margaret River to shine through. The estate's Cabernet-based wines are recognised for their elegance, longevity and unmistakable regional character, consistently earning acclaim from James Halliday and leading international critics.
Tasting Note: Produced from a classic Cabernet Sauvignon-led blend (78% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot and 11% Malbec) and matured for 18 months in French oak, the 2013 Margaret is a beautifully poised expression of Margaret River. Fragrant aromas of blackcurrant, mulberry and cassis unfold alongside cedar, cigar box, bay leaf and subtle black olive. The palate is refined rather than powerful, with vibrant blackberry and dark plum fruit supported by silky, fine-grained tannins and beautifully integrated oak. Layers of tobacco, graphite, savoury herbs and gentle spice build through the mid-palate before a long, elegant finish that is fresh, balanced and effortlessly complex. Already drinking superbly, this is a benchmark Margaret River Bordeaux blend that still has the structure to reward further cellaring.
Rating: 96 points - Halliday Wine Companion
ALC (%): 13.5
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec
Food pairing: Beef, lamb, pasta
Volume available: 750 ml
