Leeuwin Estate Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winery Background and History

Established in 1973 in Margaret River, Western Australia, Leeuwin Estate is one of the founding wineries of the region. Under the guidance of founders Denis and Tricia Horgan, and with the mentorship of Napa Valley’s Robert Mondavi, Leeuwin quickly gained acclaim for its premium wines, particularly the Art Series. This flagship range combines exceptional winemaking with original Australian artwork, reflecting the estate’s commitment to both art and science.

Producer and Winemaker

The Horgan family continues to oversee Leeuwin Estate, with their children, Justin and Simone, serving as joint Chief Executive Officers. Senior Winemaker Tim Lovett leads the winemaking team, upholding the estate’s philosophy of producing wines that express the unique terroir of Margaret River. Their approach combines traditional techniques with modern innovations to craft wines of exceptional quality and character. 

Vineyards and Microclimate

Situated in the southern part of Margaret River, Leeuwin Estate benefits from a maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The vineyards are planted on gravelly loam soils over a subsoil of clay, providing excellent drainage and contributing to vine health. Proximity to the Indian Ocean moderates temperatures, ensuring a long growing season that allows for the gradual ripening of grapes, resulting in wines with complexity and balance. 

Vinification & Aging Methods

The 2021 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon is composed of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec, carefully harvested at peak ripeness. Following individual berry sorting and cold soaking, fermentation was conducted in closed fermenters at controlled temperatures between 26°C and 30°C. Extraction techniques such as daily pump-overs enhanced flavor and tannin integration. Malolactic fermentation occurred entirely in barrels, followed by an initial maturation of 9 months. The wine was then blended and returned to French Bordelaise coopered barriques for a total of 22 months of oak aging, with periodic seasonal rackings to refine its structure and complexity. 

Tasting Notes

The 2021 vintage presents a deep ruby color with garnet hues. The nose is highly lifted and perfumed, offering aromas of blackcurrants, dark cherries, anise, clove, cardamom, and bay leaf, complemented by floral notes of lavender and basil flowers. On the palate, it exhibits drive, direction, and line, with dark forest fruits surrounding cedar, olives, and graphite. A distinct minerality is threaded within, leading to a fine finish, with length and complexity delivered by ripe, silky tannins. 

Food & Wine Pairing

This elegant Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with dishes such as roasted lamb, beef tenderloin, or venison. It also complements rich, savory dishes like mushroom risotto or aged cheddar cheese, enhancing the wine’s nuanced flavors. 

Service Methods and Temperatures

To fully appreciate its aromatic complexity, serve this wine at a temperature of 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for about 30 minutes prior to serving can help open up its bouquet and soften the tannins, enhancing the overall tasting experience. 

Storage and Aging Potential

The 2021 Art Series Cabernet Sauvignon has the potential to age gracefully for 10–15 years under proper cellaring conditions. As it matures, the wine is expected to develop further complexity, with tertiary flavors emerging and the tannins becoming more integrated, offering an even more refined drinking experience. 

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used

98% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Malbec

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

13.5%

Scores

• Decanter (Cassandra Charlick): 96 points

• WinePilot (Ken Gargett): 96 points

• WA Wine Review (Ray Jordan): 96 points

• James Suckling: 95 points

• Robert Parker Wine Advocate (Erin Larkin): 95 points