Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon is some of the most heralded Cabernet in the world. But for a region that’s only been producing wine for 50 years, how has it achieved this?
The Houghton clone, whose origin is not fully known (it could be South Africa or somewhere in Europe), produces very small berries and low yields. This clone was used to plant the first modern vineyards in Margaret River in 1967 and is now the most common clone of Cabernet Sauvignon. Most great Cabernet in the world is grown with a maritime influence, close to the sea where you have that breeze. But Margaret River also has a Mediterranean climate where we have that warm dry summer and a beautiful long dry season.
What makes Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon the best in Australia? It’s all in the clones and terroir.
Cabernet Sauvignon is big business. The world over, and vintage after vintage, this grape variety consistently produces the world's most sought-after wines. Cabernet Sauvignon has a strong history and heritage in the Margaret River region. Blessed with a similar climate and soils to Bordeaux, Margaret River is perfectly placed to grow world-class Cabernet grapes. Cabernet Sauvignon is a relatively young grape variety. During the 17th century the Cabernet Sauvignon grape came into existence when French growers in the famous Bordeaux wine region crossed Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc to create a brand new grape with unique flavor and characteristics that made it easy to grow and harvest. It gained in popularity through the 18th century thanks to its success in Bordeaux.
Sauvignon berries have dark, thick skins and can, under the correct conditions, become intensely concentrated with flavor. It is this ability to offer concentrated flavors, refined textures and complex aromatics, along with high levels of tannin allowing the wine to age and evolve that make this an ideal grape for producing wine. It is precisely this evolution that makes it so collectable.
Cabernet Sauvignon styles can vary wildly and as a result it lends itself to various food pairings. Some wines are riper, richer and more powerful, others offer a more refined flavor and texture. In a young Cabernet Sauvignon, the tannic structure makes it the perfect wine and grape to pair with fatty cuts of beef or lamb.
Tasting the Margaret River Stella Bella Serie Luminosa Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
Situated at the top of the prestigious Boodjidup Valley, part of the Wallcliffe sub-region of southern Margaret River. An area renowned for producing some of the most internationally acclaimed Cabernet from Margaret River.A true creation from the vineyard. Vine by vine nurturing and curation captures the sun & sea breeze. Signature scents of red fruits, blue fruits and violets from perfectly ripe Cabernet Sauvignon. Elegant structure meets medium bodied luxury.
Offers Vibrant red hues, The opulence of this wine cannot be understated. Vibrant aromas of raspberry and crushed strawberry, complemented by subtle French oak. Balanced by a hint of mulberry and subtle graphite.Whole berries enhance the aromatics of fresh strawberries and cherries. Elegant and medium bodied with exceptionally fine grained tannins and a palate that lingers. Selected use of French oak will compliment and nurture the wine for decades.Over time the tannins smooth out even more, and the flavors change from blackberry and cassis to more leather, tobacco, and forest floor.If you are looking for a premium Cabernet Sauvignon from Margaret River, go no further than the 2018 Luminosa
