The 2022 Wendouree Cabernet Malbec is a classic Clare Valley blend from one of Australia's most revered and tightly allocated wineries. Produced by A.P. Birks Wendouree, this highly sought-after wine combines the structure and longevity of Cabernet Sauvignon with the richness and perfume of Malbec, reflecting the unique character of Wendouree's historic old-vine vineyards.
Established in 1893, Wendouree has achieved cult status through its unwavering commitment to traditional viticulture and winemaking. Owned and operated by Tony and Lita Brady since 1974, the estate remains one of Australia's most collectible wineries, producing fewer than 2,000 cases annually. Its wines are offered almost exclusively through a long-standing mailing list and are renowned for their remarkable ability to age for decades.
The fruit is sourced from dry-grown estate vineyards in the Clare Valley, many planted between the late 1890s and early 1900s. These mature vines, together with low yields and meticulous vineyard management, consistently produce wines of exceptional concentration, complexity, and balance.
The excellent 2022 vintage delivered healthy crops with slow, even ripening, allowing both Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec to develop exceptional flavour intensity while retaining freshness and fine tannin structure.
Fermentation was carried out using indigenous yeasts in traditional open-top fermenters before maturation in French oak barrels for approximately twelve months. Wendouree's restrained approach to oak allows the purity of fruit and vineyard expression to remain the focus.
The bouquet is beautifully layered, offering aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, dark plum, and mulberry, intertwined with violet, cedar, graphite, tobacco leaf, dried herbs, and subtle earthy spice. The Malbec contributes lifted floral aromatics and plush dark fruit, while the Cabernet provides classic structure and definition.
The palate is medium- to full-bodied, powerful yet remarkably refined. Concentrated black fruit flavours are framed by firm, fine-grained tannins and vibrant natural acidity, creating exceptional balance and precision. The finish is long, savoury, and mineral-driven, with lingering notes of cassis, cedar, cocoa, and spice.
Although approachable with extended decanting, the 2022 Wendouree Cabernet Malbec is built for long-term cellaring and is expected to evolve gracefully over the next 20–30 years.
Winery: A.P. Birks Wendouree
Region: Clare Valley, South Australia
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon & Malbec
Vintage: 2022
Style: Full-Bodied Cabernet Blend
Food Pairing: Beef Wellington, grilled ribeye, roast lamb, venison, braised beef cheeks, wild mushroom dishes, and mature hard cheeses.
Drinking Window: 2023-2053
