Woodlands Vineyard 'Margaret' 2018

Winemaking and Drinking

There is something quietly magnetic about the Margaret River. Perhaps it is the way the ocean air lingers over the vineyards or the calm steadiness of its seasons. Whatever the secret, the wines born here carry a character that feels both generous and disciplined. Among these, the Woodlands Margaret Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot speaks with a voice that is refined yet approachable, a kind of dinner guest who charms everyone at the table without ever needing to raise their voice.

Origins 

Woodlands began as a family vision, planted in the early 1970s when the region was still more famous for surf breaks than cellars. The estate quickly earned a reputation for wines that seemed to carry both power and grace, particularly from Cabernet Sauvignon. When the team decided to blend Cabernet with Merlot, the aim was not simply to soften the edges but to create a dialogue between two characters. Cabernet brings structure, authority, and a certain dark fruit seriousness, while Merlot adds generosity, roundness, and a velvet quality that makes the partnership complete. Woodlands 'Margaret' is 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 8% Malbec from Woodlands Vineyard.

Tasting 

Woodlands 'Margaret' is 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Merlot and 8% Malbec from Woodlands Vineyard. Opening a bottle of the Margaret Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot feels like lifting the curtain on a story already in progress. The first impression is one of blackcurrant and mulberry with a hint of violet drifting in. A swirl of the glass reveals cedar, cocoa, and a whisper of earth that nods to the gravelly soils of its birthplace. On the palate, the wine is supple yet firm, showing red and black fruits wrapped in fine tannins. The Cabernet lays down the framework while Merlot smooths the conversation, offering plushness and approachability. The finish lingers with a gentle echo of spice and freshness that invites another sip.

Accolades and Recognition

Woodlands wines have long been celebrated on both domestic and international stages. While the Margaret Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot may not always wear the crown of a flagship, it consistently gathers medals and high praise for its elegance and balance. Critics often remark on its value, as it showcases the pedigree of the estate in a form that is immediately enjoyable yet capable of graceful ageing.

What makes this wine engaging is not just its fruit or its structure but its sense of place. It reflects the calm yet energetic spirit of Margaret River itself. It is a bottle suited equally to casual conversation over shared meals or to more thoughtful reflection by the fire. To taste it is to experience a meeting of voices that belong together, harmonising in a way that only a vineyard with deep roots and a careful hand can achieve.