Vasse Felix : Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2020

Characteristics and tasting advice for the Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2020 from Vasse Felix

Tasting

Color

With an opaque garnet hue, this wine reveals deep crimson highlights.

Nose

The bouquet displays majestic complexity with aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry and black cherry. These fruity notes intertwine with hints of graphite, bay leaf and polished cedar. Floral touches of violet and pressed flowers add an extra dimension, accompanied by subtle raspberry nuances.

Palate

The attack reveals vibrant fruit power dominated by blackcurrant and plum, supported by ultra-fine, chalky tannins, perfectly integrated into the wine’s silky texture and its bright, tangy freshness. Malbec brings hints of violet and spice, while savory, herbal elements lend complexity and definition. Notes of woody spice and sweet tobacco leaf extend the aromatic profile, leading into a rich mid-palate shaped by fine, elegant tannins. The finish stands out for its exceptional length, marked by dark chocolate notes that add depth and complexity without compromising the overall balance.

Food and wine pairings

This wine is an ideal match for grilled red meats, a herb-roasted rack of lamb, or duck breast with red berries. It also pairs well with aged hard cheeses.

Serving and cellaring

The Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2020 can be enjoyed now or cellared until around 2045. One hour of decanting helps fully reveal its aromatic complexity. Ideally serve between 16 and 18°C.

An iconic Margaret River red wine with elegant yet powerful accents

The estate

Founded in 1967 by Dr Thomas Brendan Cullity, Vasse Felix is the pioneering estate of the Margaret River region in Western Australia. Owned by the Holmes à Court family since 1987 and led by Paul Holmes à Court, the estate now spans 300 hectares, including 52 hectares of vines within the historic vineyard. Virginia Willcock, Chief Winemaker since 2006, and Bart Molony, Head Viticulturist, were recently honored as Winemaker of the Year 2026 and Viticulturist of the Year 2025 respectively by the Halliday Wine Companion. The estate was also named Australia’s best winery in 2025. Vasse Felix embodies Australian wine excellence through a terroir-respectful approach and a minimally interventive winemaking philosophy.

The vineyard

The Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2020 comes from the historic Vasse Felix vineyard, located in Wilyabrup in the Margaret River region. Planted just four kilometers from the coast, the vineyard benefits from the refreshing maritime influences of the Indian Ocean and the Southern Ocean. The vines grow on shallow soils composed of ironstone and gravelly loams typical of the Wilyabrup Ridge elevation. This privileged exposure to sea breezes encourages slow, even ripening, essential to developing the fruit’s structural elegance. The vineyard is notably home to Margaret River’s oldest commercial vines, planted by Dr Cullity in 1967, which form the principal source of this iconic wine.

Winemaking and aging

Hand harvesting took place between February 28 and April 9, 2020, allowing the grapes to be picked at optimal ripeness. To craft the Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec 2020, the grapes were destemmed without crushing prior to natural fermentation. The cabernet sauvignon fermented in static tanks with gentle pump-overs, then remained on skins for up to thirty days to capitalize on the vintage’s outstanding tannin quality. The malbec and petit verdot fermented in open vats with manual punch-downs and basket pressing. The wine was then pressed into fine French oak barrels and aged for eighteen months, including 33% new oak. This measured approach allows the fruit to shine while adding structure and aging potential.

Grape varieties

This Australian red wine is a blend of cabernet sauvignon (81%), malbec (16%) and petit verdot (3%)