Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 1.5L

Winery Background and History

Established in 1973, Leeuwin Estate is one of the founding wineries of the Margaret River region in Western Australia. Under the guidance of Denis and Tricia Horgan, and with mentorship from Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi, the estate quickly gained international acclaim. Leeuwin’s “Art Series” wines, introduced in the early 1980s, are renowned for their exceptional quality and for featuring labels adorned with works by contemporary Australian artists. The estate’s commitment to excellence has solidified its reputation as a producer of world-class wines.

Producer and Winemaker

The winemaking team at Leeuwin Estate is led by Chief Winemaker Tim Lovett, who brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the Margaret River terroir. Lovett’s philosophy emphasizes minimal intervention, allowing the unique characteristics of each vineyard block to shine through. His meticulous approach to viticulture and vinification ensures that each vintage of the Art Series wines reflects both the varietal purity and the distinctiveness of the region.

Vineyards and Microclimate

The grapes for the 2017 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from Leeuwin Estate’s own vineyards, located in the southern part of Margaret River. This area benefits from a maritime climate, with cooling breezes from the Indian Ocean moderating temperatures and extending the growing season. The soils are predominantly gravelly loam, providing excellent drainage and contributing to the development of concentrated fruit flavors. These conditions are ideal for cultivating Cabernet Sauvignon of exceptional quality.

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2017 vintage is a blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec. The grapes were handpicked and sorted before fermentation in stainless steel tanks. Post-fermentation, the wine underwent maceration to extract color and tannins, followed by malolactic fermentation. It was then aged for 22 months in French oak barriques, with a portion being new oak, to enhance complexity and structure. The wine was bottled under screw cap to preserve its freshness and integrity.

Tasting Notes

The 2017 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon displays a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it offers aromas of blackcurrant, blueberry, and boysenberry, complemented by notes of violets and lavender. The palate is rich and concentrated, featuring flavors of black and blue fruits, cedar, and dried thyme. The wine’s structure is supported by firm, polished tannins, leading to a long, elegant finish. This vintage showcases both power and finesse, characteristic of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon.

Food & Wine Pairing

This wine pairs beautifully with grilled meats, such as lamb chops or beef tenderloin, as well as hearty stews and aged cheeses. Its robust structure and complex flavor profile complement dishes with rich, savory components. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with mushroom risotto or eggplant parmesan. The wine’s acidity and tannins will balance the richness of these dishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate the nuances of this wine, serve it at 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving is recommended to allow the wine to open up and reveal its aromatic complexity. Use large, Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the aromas and facilitate aeration. This approach will enhance the wine’s bouquet and flavor profile, providing a more enjoyable tasting experience.

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2017 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon is built for longevity and will reward cellaring. Stored under optimal conditions—cool, dark, and with consistent humidity—the wine will develop additional complexity over the next 10–15 years. Expect the emergence of tertiary flavors, such as leather, tobacco, and earthy notes, which will complement the existing fruit and oak characteristics. This evolution will add depth and sophistication to the wine’s profile.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

• 98% Cabernet Sauvignon

• 2% Malbec

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Scores

• Wine Enthusiast: 93 points

• Wine Advocate: 93 points

• Robert Parker: 93 points

• James Suckling: 94 points