Founded in 1986 by the Burch family, Howard Park is one of Western Australia’s leading family-owned wineries, renowned for its meticulous single-vineyard expressions from Margaret River and the Great Southern. The Leston Vineyard series showcases the individuality of the estate’s northern Margaret River site, combining concentration, structure, and regional finesse.
Vineyard
The Leston Vineyard, situated in Wilyabrup, lies on free-draining gravelly loam soils over clay — classic Cabernet country. The maritime climate provides warm days, cooling afternoon sea breezes, and an extended ripening period, producing Cabernet grapes of intensity, freshness, and fine tannin.
Winemaking
Hand-harvested fruit was destemmed and fermented in small open tanks, with gentle extraction to preserve aromatics and structure. The wine matured for 18 months in fine-grained French oak (around 40% new) before blending and bottling at the estate. The result is a beautifully balanced, modern Margaret River Cabernet of purity and poise.
Vintage
The 2023 vintage in Margaret River was mild and consistent, with slow, even ripening yielding fruit of exceptional brightness and aromatic precision. A standout year for Cabernet Sauvignon, producing wines with power, definition, and longevity.
Tasting Notes
Deep crimson in colour, the 2023 Leston Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of blackcurrant, bay leaf, and graphite, layered with cedar and cocoa. The palate is finely structured and elegant, offering ripe cassis, plum, and savoury spice framed by polished tannins and vibrant acidity. A long, graceful finish confirms its pedigree and cellaring potential.
Technical Information
Region: Margaret River, Western Australia
Subregion: Wilyabrup
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Vintage: 2023
Alcohol: ~14%
Maturation: 18 months in French oak (approx. 40% new)
Closure: Screwcap
Drinking Window: 2025–2040+
A Modern Margaret River Classic
The 2023 Howard Park Leston Cabernet Sauvignon epitomises Margaret River sophistication — ripe yet restrained, structured yet silky. A benchmark single-vineyard Cabernet built for both early enjoyment and long-term cellaring.
