1999 Cullen Cabernet Merlot Magnum (1500ml)

[Tasted circa 2001] A very impressive wine from an excellent Margaret River vintage. Made from a blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. This is the first time Petit Verdot has been introduced into the blend. Opaque crimson mauve purple colour. Classic Bordeaux nose of chocolate, spice, blackcurrant and cedar followed by a touch of truffle. On the palate the flavour profile seems slow to start but then builds towards the middle and back palate, to reveal flavours of chocolate, spice and blackcurrant. Flavours of black pepper and blackcurrant emerge on the end palate followed by a hint of liquorice. Outstanding persistence. Fine grained dry tannins, perfect balance, followed by an aftertaste that lasts for minutes.

Other reviews... Strong purple-red, the powerful but pristine bouquet proclaims the blackberry/blackcurrant/cassis fruit of the palate framed by the inimitable Cullen tannins which run through from the mid-palate to the finish. Drink by 2020 Tasted October 2001.
96 points - James Halliday's Wine Companion