2020 Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon

From the superb 2020 vintage, this blend of 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec and 3% Petit Verdot was sourced predominantly from mature vineyards in the more northern Margaret River sub region of Wilyabrup (51%) along with estate grown fruit from the Wallcliffe sub region (41%), and a portion from a vineyard in Treeton (8%). Maturation took place in French oak barriques (40%) new for a period of 14 months.

A beautiful Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon that seamlessly integrates tannin and fruit.

Totally opaque black as night heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Drifting through the olfactory senses with more than ample intensity are delightful red to black currant and mulberry scents which work in tandem with some cedary tobacco, subtle black olive and bay leaf notes. Medium bodied, elegant and ultra refined the palate is decorated with generous red to black currant and mulberry fruits that possess plenty of richness and flesh. Infusions of bay leaf, spicy vanillin cedar, subtle tobacco and earthy black olive elements ensue. Very fine grained, perfectly integrated tannins lend polish and finesse to the long finish.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews….
With 8/3% malbec/petit verdot. Matured for 14 months in French oak (40% new). Perfumed, pure and very pretty. The three 'p's' for success. In the mouth the wine is all that the nose promised, the very fine tannins curve and shape the fruit. Very smart. Tasted alongside wines 3+ times the price of this and it still held its own. The finish is creamy and svelte. Drink by 2036.
95 points
Erin Larkin – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

Such a sophisticated cabernet for this price category. Previous vintages have collected gold medals and trophies around the country. The 2020 vintage was superb and it’s on display here with the tightly wound fruit held close with a tannin and fine oak wrap. Bright and elegant with tremendous length. This is a cabernet that needs at least another five years to reveal anything like its best features. Be worth the wait though. Drink 2022-2034.
96 points
Ray Jordan – WinePilot.com

If 2020 had a calling card, it would be: "1800 tanin 'n fruit." The 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon is lush and abundant, veritably spilling over with cassis, raspberry, licorice and bramble. The tannins, too, show their 2020 roots in the firm swell of texture in the mouth. It seems a shame to age this, such is the seductive guile of the youthful fruit at this stage, however it will only increase in complexity and spice as it gets older. Choose your player. Drink 2022-2037.
95 points
Erin Larkin – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate