Cullen Ephraim 2024

Ephraim Mayo Clarke was Kevin John Cullen’s grandfather, Vanya’s great-grandfather, a Member of Parliament who preceded the efforts of his descendants by establishing the first winery in the southwest, in Bunbury, way back in 1896. From the Mangan vineyard, this is a blend of 76% Malbec and 24% Petit Verdot, which saw eight months in oak, 30% new. Opaque maroon, the nose reveals aromas of plums, spices, black cherries, red apples and raspberries, with hints of woodsmoke. Still very youthful, from a record hot, dry vintage, there is mouth puckering acidity, velvety tannins, bright flavours and a persistent finish. Will provide a lot of pleasure over the next two to four years but well cellared, will go on a lot further than that.