Deep Woods Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (Margaret River) - Wine Review

After enjoying the lovely 2023 Deep Woods Margaret River Chardonnay last month, tonight's red wine review is a lovely follow-up from the same producer. This red wine is a brand-new arrival at the LCBO as part of the recent July 6th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the Chardonnay, it is produced by Deep Woods Estate, a winery situated in the Margaret River wine region of Western Australia that is highly regarded and known for producing high-quality wines. It was originally established in 1987 by Dr. Thomas Cullity, who named the winery after a fictitious location from the popular "Phantom" comic that he was a fan of. The Deep Woods logo is also based on the Phantom ring.

In 1992, the estate winery was acquired by the Gould family, and it remained in their hands until 2005, when it was purchased by the Fogarty family. Under the ownership of Fogarty Wine Group, Deep Woods Estate was transformed into one of Margaret River's most highly regarded wineries as the vineyards were re-worked, while also implementing sustainable vineyard practices to improve fruit quality with smaller yields. Wine production at Deep Woods is based on a combination of traditional philosophy using modern techniques.

Situated in the heart of the Yallingup Hills in Margaret River, Western Australia, Deep Woods Estate is perched high on a ridge overlooking the valley and surrounded by large jarrah and marri trees. The terroir in this area is unique with soils that are comprised of deep, sandy gravels over clay, as well as a dual maritime influence from both the Indian Ocean and Geographe Bay - factors that contribute to this world-class wine region.

Deep Woods Estate has a number of ranges of wines. By combining sustainable viticultural practices with Margaret River's exceptional and unique terroir, Deep Woods is able to get incredibly high-quality fruit, for each vintage, in an unwavering pursuit of excellence. This red wine is from Deep Woods' Hillside range - a group of ripe, delicate, and limited-production wines made from low-yielding fruit that is grown on the steepest slopes on the estate and showcases their dedication to site-selection and pure varietal expression.

Crafted with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, this red wine is a unique expression from the Margaret River wine region - one of the best Cabernet producing areas in the world. The fruit for this wine is mostly from vineyards located on the Deep Woods Estate in Yallingup, with the vines just coming of age and showing great intensity and verve. To vinify this wine, the grapes underwent 10-14 days of skin contact during fermentation and were then pressed directly to barrel. It was aged for approximately 12 months in barrels, with 15% new oak.

The 2021 growing season in Margaret River was unusually challenging and wet. Canopy management, timing of harvest, and careful fruit selection were vital components in ensuring high-quality fruit. The work in the vineyard was especially difficult due to a season of labour shortages. proved vital, a tricky balancing act in a season of labour shortages. The cooler and drier conditions in March and April improved aromatics, vibrancy, and fine tannins. The result was that the 2021 vintage produced very fine and refined wines. Let's see how this 2021 Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DEEP WOODS HILLSIDE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 - Margaret River, Western Australia (#33418) (XD) - $24.95
Screw cap. The fragrant, medium-high+ intensity nose offers lovely, perfumed aromas of red & black fruits, currant, cassis, blackberry, black plum, grilled herbs, and mild oak spice. On the dry, well-structured, and medium+ to medium-full bodied palate it delivers ripe and stylish red & black fruits, cassis, currant, black cherry, blackberry, grilled herbs, smoky mineral, gentle vanilla oak spice, and savoury earth flavours. It's nicely balanced throughout with fresh and succulent acidity. It has smooth, refined tannins, with just a touch of grip and spice notes on the back palate. Savoury with graphite and dried herbal characters linger on the long, juicy finish. Very approachable right now and a highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Other fine wines by Deep Woods Estate can be ordered through their Agent - Eurovintage Wines & Spirits, and perhaps at the LCBO when stores re-open after the strike ends.