Established in 1963 by Reg and Jessie Egan, Wantirna Estate is one of the Yarra Valley’s oldest and most cherished family-owned vineyards. Today, second-generation winemaker Maryann Egan continues the estate’s legacy of crafting small-volume wines that combine classical structure with subtle sophistication.
Wine Overview
Named after the family’s third-generation member, ‘Amelia’ embodies the grace and strength of traditional Bordeaux blends — Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure and depth, Merlot lending suppleness and charm. Produced only from estate-grown fruit, it reflects the integrity of a single site and the timeless elegance of mature Yarra Valley reds.
Vineyard
Situated on the gentle slopes near the Yarra River, Wantirna’s gravelly clay-loam soils and dry-grown vines yield low crops of intensely flavoured berries. The microclimate — warm days and cool nights — encourages gradual ripening, developing fine tannins and balanced acidity ideal for long-lived wines.
Winemaking
Each variety was fermented separately in small open fermenters, with hand plunging and careful extraction to preserve fruit purity. The components were matured for approximately 18 months in French oak barriques (around one-third new) before blending and bottling on site.
Vintage
The 2010 vintage was one of the finest of the decade — a mild growing season delivering beautifully balanced fruit with vibrant colour, aromatic intensity, and refined tannins. Wines from this year show exceptional ageing potential.
Tasting Notes
Now at peak maturity, the 2010 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot reveals layers of blackcurrant, plum, and cedar, interwoven with savoury herbs, cigar box, and graphite. The palate is poised and textural, with fine-grained tannins and a long, harmonious finish. A graceful, perfectly evolved Yarra Valley classic.
Technical Information
Region: Yarra Valley, Victoria
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot (with small portions of Cabernet Franc & Petit Verdot)
Vintage: 2010
Alcohol: ~13.5%
Maturation: 18 months in French oak (approx. 30% new)
Closure: Cork
Drinking Window: Now – 2032+
A Yarra Valley Treasure
The 2010 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot epitomises Wantirna Estate’s philosophy of understated elegance and longevity. A rare, mature release from one of Victoria’s most respected boutique producers — graceful, balanced, and beautifully enduring.
