2022 Wantirna Estate Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

2024 marks 61 years since the first vines were planted at Wantirna Estate, established in 1963 on an east-facing slope in Melbourne's southeastern outskirts. Once a mix of orchards, bush, and grasslands, the vineyard thrives today under the care of Maryann, Reg's daughter, though Reg remains actively involved. The wines, named after his four grandchildren, feature labels illustrated by Michael Leunig, reflecting each grandchild's personality—a heartfelt touch to this family-run estate.
The 2022 Amelia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot is crafted primarily from the original 1963 plantings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, with a smaller contribution from Petit Verdot vines planted in 1989. The blend typically consists of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and Cabernet Franc, and 5% Petit Verdot, though proportions vary yearly. The Petit Verdot, harvested last in mid-April, adds tannin and natural acidity. The 2022 vintage showcases Amelia's signature elegance and finesse, with ripe fruit, long tannins, and a balanced palate reflecting the high quality of Cabernets from the region. It is both approachable now and built for aging.

Other Reviews....
24% Merlot/Cabernet Franc, 66% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot. This wine weighs in at 12.8%, and in some respects it’s kind of an old school expression of Yarra Cabernet, and it’s making me think about what constitutes great Cabernet, which is kind of unfortunate for me, because thinking too much makes my head hurt. The point I’m trying to make, however, it that I really like this wine, and indeed the style, though I grant you some will maybe find it less to their liking. I see beauty, though some may think it lacks some stuffing.
Blackcurrant and red fruits, tobacco and pencils, quite some violet and rosehip perfume, some camphor, roast red capsicum and dried herb. It’s medium-bodied, firm and finely etched, very ‘minerally’, the acidity is crisp and almost cranberried, the tannin offers some chalky and grainy grip, and it’s long and bright to close. This wine has energy and perfume, and while it’s kind of frisky, I reckon it’s really good. Cellaring will unlock further nuance and beauty. Drink 2027 - 2042+
96 Points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front