At a glance

Producer

Cullen Wines

Region

Margaret River, Australia

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon blend

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$120 - $150

Tasting profile

Dark berry fruits, cassis, cedar, herbal notes with subtle oak influence; firm tannins

Evolution: Fruit complexity will deepen; secondary aromas of earth, tobacco, and leather will develop with time

At peak: Rich layered black fruits, silky tannins, integrated oak, elegant finish with length and depth

Structure

Acidity

Balanced acidity contributing to freshness and aging ability

Tannins

Firm, fine-grained tannins providing strong backbone

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

High, 20+ years due to concentration, acidity, and tannin structure

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2030 to 2049

Optimal window

2025 to 2052

Current status

Approaching early drinking window with excellent aging potential

Current condition

Youthful with structured tannins and vibrant fruit, still developing complexity

The 2017 vintage in Margaret River produced structured, balanced wines with good acidity and ripe tannins allowing for medium to long-term cellaring. Cullen's Diana Madeline is known for its age-worthiness, built for extended maturation. Optimal drinking window starting 8+ years post vintage aligns with development of complexity and tannin integration.

Food pairing

Pairs excellently with game meats, roast lamb, beef tenderloin, aged cheddar, mushroom-based dishes, and hearty slow-cooked stews.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (1-2 hours) — Allows tannins to soften and aromatics to open up, especially while young

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 9/10

Use of organic and biodynamic farming methods, minimal intervention winemaking, solar energy utilization, water recycling and conservation, lightweight eco packaging

Cullen Wines is a leader in sustainability within the Australian wine industry, certified organic and biodynamic since the 1990s. Their practices minimize environmental footprint through energy efficiency, organic viticulture, and careful water resource management. While exporting imposes a carbon footprint, their overall sustainability approach positions them among top sustainable producers globally.