Wild Cape in Focus: Cabernet Sauvignon
Wild Cape is a celebration of the raw beauty of Western Australia’s South West.
Through photographer Andrew Semark’s epic and dramatic ocean photography, Wild Cape embodies the essence of the region, where dramatic waves crash onto the coast and world-class wines are produced in this remote, pristine part of the world.
Wild Cape focuses on the three varietals that Margaret River is so well-known for – Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon – showcasing the exceptional, terroir-driven wines of this pristine wine region.
Read on as we dive into the world of Wild Cape Cabernet Sauvignon.
Senior Winemaker Matt Byrne on the Wild Cape Cabernet Sauvignon Vision
From the very beginning, the dream was to try and capture the powerful, raw beauty of the South West coast and at the same time reflect the unique regional wine within. Senior Winemaker Matt Byrne said: “Andrew’s extraordinary images that he captures simply stop you in your tracks – they’re a sensory overload in a good way. To make wine that has this same impact was my goal.”
Matt’s vision was to showcase the world-class quality of Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon. He said: “We can really focus this on with the access we have to such mature vines planted in 1972.”
The Wild Cape vision is already taking off, with the 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon being awarded a Gold Medal at the prestigious Perth Royal Wine Show 2022.
On the final blend decision for this wine, Matt Byrne said: “This Cabernet is such a delicious drink and even more so with the addition of a touch of Malbec at blending which really elevates this wine into something extra special. The flavour, perfume and effortless nature of its silken palate just floods the senses making for a really memorable experience.”
The Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec fruit were harvested and cold soaked for 5 days prior to fermentation. Following a 7-day ferment for the Malbec and a 12-day ferment for the Cabernet Sauvignon, each batch was pressed into used French oak barrels with 15% of the Cabernet pressed to new oak Hogsheads. The pressings fraction was used for both varieties and the wine was then matured in oak for 14 months, with barrel topping occurring monthly.
Matt Byrne’s Tasting Note
The nose is ripe, layered and complex whilst still having the lovely, perfumed lift that the best Margaret River Cabernet wines are renowned for. Blackberry, olive and dry earth with a touch of bright leafiness defines the aroma and flavour of the wine. This driving flavour is matched with a lovely dry, fine tannin grip typical of young Cabernet Sauvignon from the excellent 2020 Margaret River vintage.
For the ultimate food pairing, Matt recommends venison and lamb dishes. The softer tannins and lighter body of the wine matches lighter red meats.
His three words to describe this memorable wine? “Flavour, perfume, elegance.”
Awards:
- Gold Medal – Perth Royal Wine Show 2022
- Silver Medal – Royal Hobart Wine Show 2022
- Silver Medal – James Halliday Australian Cabernet Challenge 2022
- Silver Medal – Wine Show of Western Australia 2022
Watch the video below to hear Matt talking about the Wild Cape vision and this delicious red wine from Margaret River.
You can shop the Wild Cape range here.