Established in 1963 by Reg and Jessie Egan, Wantirna Estate remains one of the Yarra Valley’s most historic and revered boutique wineries. Today, under the meticulous guidance of Maryann Egan, the estate continues its legacy of crafting small-lot, estate-grown wines that embody elegance, restraint, and timeless ageability.
Wine Overview
Named for the third generation of the Egan family, ‘Amelia’ is Wantirna’s classic Bordeaux-inspired blend — predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon supported by Merlot, with small portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. The result is a refined expression of cool-climate sophistication, balancing depth, perfume, and fine structure.
Vineyard
The fruit comes from mature, low-yielding vines rooted in gravelly clay-loam soils near the Yarra River. Dry-grown and hand-tended, these vines produce small berries of intense flavour and natural balance. The vineyard’s microclimate — warm days tempered by cool nights — ensures slow ripening and graceful tannin development.
Winemaking
Fermented in small open fermenters with hand plunging, each parcel was matured separately for 18 months in French oak barriques (around one-third new) before blending and bottling on site. The approach remains minimal and traditional, allowing the vineyard’s personality to shine.
Vintage
2016 was a warm, even vintage across the Yarra Valley, yielding beautifully ripe fruit with deep colour, fine tannins, and supple texture. The wines from this year are generous yet balanced, approachable in youth yet structured for graceful ageing.
Tasting Notes
The 2016 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot displays lifted aromas of blackcurrant, violet, and cedar, interwoven with graphite, bay leaf, and subtle oak spice. The palate is medium-bodied yet powerful, showing ripe dark fruits, fine-grained tannins, and superb length. Elegant now, it will continue to evolve for many years to come.
Technical Information
Region: Yarra Valley, Victoria
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2016
Alcohol: ~13.5%
Maturation: 18 months in French oak (approx. 30% new)
Closure: Cork
Drinking Window: 2024–2038+
A Modern Classic
The 2016 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot exemplifies Wantirna Estate’s timeless philosophy — finesse over force, purity over power. A beautifully balanced Yarra Valley Cabernet blend, crafted for collectors who value quiet elegance and enduring quality.
