Founded in 1963 by Reg and Jessie Egan, Wantirna Estate stands as one of the Yarra Valley’s earliest and most cherished small family vineyards. Under the direction of second-generation winemaker Maryann Egan, the estate continues to produce refined, small-lot wines that embody the balance and beauty of its historic site.
Wine Overview
Named for the third generation of the Egan family, ‘Amelia’ is the estate’s flagship Bordeaux-inspired blend — Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure and drive, Merlot lending softness and charm, and small portions of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot adding aromatic lift and complexity. The result is a wine of quiet power, poise, and exceptional longevity.
Vineyard
The Amelia fruit is drawn entirely from Wantirna’s mature, dry-grown vines planted on gravelly clay-loam soils near the Yarra River. The site’s long ripening season, moderated by cool nights, yields grapes of fine tannin structure, vibrant acidity, and natural balance — hallmarks of the estate’s timeless style.
Winemaking
Each variety was fermented separately in small open fermenters with hand plunging for gentle extraction. Maturation took place in French oak barriques (around one-third new) for approximately 18 months before blending and bottling on site. As always, the approach was minimal intervention — precision guided by experience.
Vintage
2017 was a cool and extended growing season in the Yarra Valley, producing wines of remarkable aromatic purity, balance, and finesse. This vintage has become highly regarded for its elegant tannins, moderate alcohol, and exceptional ageing potential.
Tasting Notes
The 2017 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot opens with perfumed aromas of cassis, violet, and bay leaf, layered with graphite, cedar, and gentle spice. The palate is medium-bodied and graceful, showing bright red and black fruits, finely textured tannins, and a long, savoury finish. A beautifully balanced and classical Yarra Valley Cabernet blend — refined yet quietly powerful.
Technical Information
Region: Yarra Valley, Victoria
Varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Vintage: 2017
Alcohol: ~13.5%
Maturation: 18 months in French oak (approx. 30% new)
Closure: Cork
Drinking Window: 2024–2038+
A Yarra Valley Benchmark
The 2017 ‘Amelia’ Cabernet Sauvignon – Merlot captures the elegance and lineage of Wantirna Estate — a small, family-run vineyard that has defined restraint and longevity in Australian Cabernet for over half a century. A true collector’s wine of finesse and enduring beauty.
