98 points. - Winepilot
97 points. - The Real Review
The 2024 growing season tested even the most experienced winemakers, delivering the earliest, hottest and driest harvest ever recorded in Margaret River. Yet it is precisely in challenging vintages that Vanya Cullen's unwavering commitment to biodynamic farming truly shines. With roots stretching deep into the ancient gravel soils of the Cullen estate, the original vines planted in 1971 produced fruit of exceptional concentration, balance and vitality.
The result is a Diana Madeline that beautifully captures both the resilience of the vineyard and the elegance of Margaret River. A meticulous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot, the wine was matured for 14 months in French oak, achieving a seamless balance between power and finesse. While retaining the structure and pedigree for decades of cellaring, the 2024 is notably more open and expressive in its youth, making it one of the most approachable recent releases.
The bouquet is captivating, revealing layers of blackcurrant, dark plum, cedar, graphite, bay leaf and sweet tobacco, complemented by delicate floral notes. On the palate, concentrated cassis and ripe black fruits are framed by fine French oak, cocoa nuances and beautifully sculpted tannins, finishing with remarkable freshness, mineral precision and exceptional length.
Whether enjoyed today after decanting or cellared for the next two decades and beyond, the 2024 Diana Madeline is another outstanding chapter in the legacy of one of Australia's most iconic Cabernet blends.
Perfect with: Dry-aged ribeye, roast lamb with rosemary, slow-braised beef cheeks, venison, herb-crusted rack of lamb, mushroom Wellington, aged Comté or mature Cheddar. Its refined structure and savoury complexity also make it a superb companion to truffle-infused dishes and other special occasion meals.
97 points. - The Real Review
The 2024 growing season tested even the most experienced winemakers, delivering the earliest, hottest and driest harvest ever recorded in Margaret River. Yet it is precisely in challenging vintages that Vanya Cullen's unwavering commitment to biodynamic farming truly shines. With roots stretching deep into the ancient gravel soils of the Cullen estate, the original vines planted in 1971 produced fruit of exceptional concentration, balance and vitality.
The result is a Diana Madeline that beautifully captures both the resilience of the vineyard and the elegance of Margaret River. A meticulous blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Merlot, the wine was matured for 14 months in French oak, achieving a seamless balance between power and finesse. While retaining the structure and pedigree for decades of cellaring, the 2024 is notably more open and expressive in its youth, making it one of the most approachable recent releases.
The bouquet is captivating, revealing layers of blackcurrant, dark plum, cedar, graphite, bay leaf and sweet tobacco, complemented by delicate floral notes. On the palate, concentrated cassis and ripe black fruits are framed by fine French oak, cocoa nuances and beautifully sculpted tannins, finishing with remarkable freshness, mineral precision and exceptional length.
Whether enjoyed today after decanting or cellared for the next two decades and beyond, the 2024 Diana Madeline is another outstanding chapter in the legacy of one of Australia's most iconic Cabernet blends.
Perfect with: Dry-aged ribeye, roast lamb with rosemary, slow-braised beef cheeks, venison, herb-crusted rack of lamb, mushroom Wellington, aged Comté or mature Cheddar. Its refined structure and savoury complexity also make it a superb companion to truffle-infused dishes and other special occasion meals.