Pre-Release 2020 Redbrook Estate Cabernet Merlot

We are offering our members an exclusive, limited pre-release of this internationally acclaimed wine, with just 50 6-packs available to purchase. 

Please note this wine can only be purchased in multiples of 6.

"Varietal Cabernet wines from Margaret River have gained international acclaim in a relatively short period of time. For the IWSC judges to recognise and award a Trophy to our Redbrook Estate Cabernet Merlot, supports our belief that the Cabernet blends are right up there with the pure Cabernet wines of the region. These blends are an exciting secret in Margaret River – wine lovers are only just starting to uncover these world-class wines. It is particularly rewarding to wave the flag for Margaret River on the global stage that has the respect and recognition of the IWSC."

Senior Winemaker Matt Bryne

colour

Vibrant purple red. 

aroma

A distinctly Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot blend. Pure Cabernet Sauvignon aromas of bay leaf, cassis and black olive envelope perfumed Merlot aromas of plums, blueberries and light spice.

palate

The Merlot fruit, and a small splash of Malbec, add texture, balance, length and a luxurious fragrance to create a seamless, uniquely Margaret River red.  

cellaring

Will show youthful, perfumed notes with fresh fruit flavours upon release. For those after additional complexity and softness, five or more years of bottle age is suggested. 

vintage

Following a cool 2019 vintage, the 2020 vintage in Margaret River returned to a warmer one similar to that experienced in 2018. This has produced exceptional quality wines across a large range of varieties and styles.

The season started with early and strong budburst due to warmer soil conditions produced from the drier and warmer than average 2019 winter. This continued into Spring with near perfect conditions experienced during the flowering period (very dry, low RH and minimal wind) which further elevated the potential quality of the vintage.

A very dry 4 months with low humidity during the critical ripening period (Jan to Apr 2020) has produced deep, concentrated flavours and highlighted the importance of managing the vine canopies according to the variety and desired wine style.

winemaking

This wine underwent pre-fermentation cold soak maceration for 3 days (Cabernet Sauvignon) and 5 days (Merlot). The Merlot was fermented in open-top fermenters for 7 days and 10-days for the Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine was then racked to 100% French oak (15% new). 500L puncheons were used for the Merlot (matured for 12 months) and 300L hogsheads for the Cabernet Sauvignon (matured for 15 months).

region

Margaret River

varieties

analysis

• Alcohol: 14.5%
• pH: 3.47
• TA (Acidity): 6.33 g/L

Rosemary-infused lamb shank casserole with soft polenta.

International Wine Show Challenge 2023

"A wine of pedigree with a palate that is beautifully balanced with notes of dark fruits, red berries, pencil shavings, and herbs. Beads of refreshing acidity run through to the powerful finish, demonstrating the skill with which it has been crafted. A sophisticated and age-worthy example."

Margaret River Wine Show 2022

Royal Queensland Wine Awards 2023

Perth Royal Wine Awards 2023

National Wine Show of Australia 2023

Sydney Royal Wine Show 2023

Wine Show of Western Australia 2023

Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion 2024

While Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are stamped on the label, percentages unknown even if the latter adds lots of its positive attributes to the wine. A dark red/inky hue laden with mulberries, plums, cassis and a baker’s cupboard full of spices with wafts of tobacco, menthol/eucalyptus. Full bodied and densely packed with flavour and no shortage of structure or tannins. If you imagine being at a rave, this wine is the DJ mixing it right up.

Ray Jordan Wine Guide 2024

Hard to beat this classic Margaret River combination in a very good year. It's more towards medium bodied and so stylish and poised as it drives effortlessly to a long finish. Aromas of graphite and bay leaf reveal immediately with very subtle olive tapenade in the background. The fleshy Merlot fills the palate neatly while the Cabernet adds those firm angular tannins for structure and poise. Has a slightly chewy finish.

95

James Suckling, November 2023

Notes of dark cherries and blackberries with hints of cocoa, licorice and bark. Medium-bodied with firm, chalky tannins and a spiced, red and dark fruit character. Structured and a little chewy at the end.