At a glance

Producer

Vasse Felix

Region

Margaret River, Western Australia, Australia

Grape variety

Cabernet Sauvignon

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$20-30 USD retail (typical global range)

Tasting profile

Vivid blackcurrant, red plum, violets, graphite, cedar; subtle eucalyptus, cocoa, and spice. Youthful fruit with underlying savory herbaceous notes.

Evolution: Tertiary notes of tobacco, leather, and earth will emerge with cellaring; fruit will soften, tannins will integrate.

At peak: Elegant integration of fruit, oak, and earth; complexity, finesse, and mellowed acids and tannins.

Structure

Acidity

Medium to high, fresh and supporting longevity

Tannins

Medium to firm, fine-grained, polished

Alcohol

Medium (13-14%)

Aging potential

Excellent for its price point; 8-12 years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2026 to 2030

Optimal window

2024 to 2032

Current status

Approachable now but structured for mid-term aging

Current condition

Youthful, primary fruit still prominent alongside developing structure and complexity

The Filius range is intentionally made for earlier approachability than the Estate line, but Margaret River's regional structure and Vasse Felix's careful winemaking mean this 2020 can reward 6-10 years of aging, peaking as tannins integrate and the wine gains savory complexity while still retaining freshness.

Food pairing

Grilled lamb, aged cheddar, mushroom risotto, rosemary beef, or lentil and root vegetable stew (for vegetarian pairing).

Serving

Decant

Yes (30 minutes) — Decanting will help to aerate the wine, enhancing the aromas and softening the medium to firm tannins, making it more approachable.

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Vasse Felix participates in extensive sustainability and land stewardship programs: native bushland conservation, integrated pest management, reduced chemical usage, water recycling initiatives, solar energy adoption, and lightweight bottles for packaging.

Vasse Felix is a leader among Western Australian producers for sustainability, going beyond minimum regulations. While not certified organic or biodynamic, their SWA membership signals adherence to rigorous standards: careful vineyard management, wildlife habitats, and advances in renewable energy. Packaging is eco-conscious (lightweight bottles, local glass supply), though lack of full organic certification and global shipping limit a top score. Overall, this wine is produced with significant sustainability commitments relative to most mainstream global Cabernets.