Handpicked Collection Margaret River Cabernet Merlot 2013

Product Description

A refined Bordeaux-style blend from Margaret River, Australia, combining Cabernet Sauvignon (~65%) with Merlot (~35%) in a classic red wine style.

Winery & Region Background

Handpicked Wines crafts regional selections from Margaret River, a Mediterranean‑climate coastal zone in southwestern Western Australia. The region's even temperatures and maritime influence (similar to Bordeaux) foster balanced red blends with firm structure and elegance .

Handpicked sources from local growers, vinifying grapes separately in static and open fermenters before aging them in French barriques (mix of new & used) for ~18 months. The 2013 vintage benefited from a warm, dry season followed by moderating rains, promoting slow ripening and concentrated flavour.

Tasting Notes

Nose

• Aromas of red & black currants

• Secondary notes of eucalyptus, bay leaf and cedar

• Subtle hints of dark chocolate, pencil lead and cedar oak 

Palate

• Full-bodied with rich dark fruits—blackberry, cherry

• Firm, structured tannins with cedar, spice and oak influence

• A savory tannin backbone balanced by plum and dark berries 

Finish

• Long, dry, savory finish featuring cedar, charred oak, chocolate and eucalyptus

• Balanced between fruit richness and firm tannic grip

Awards & Recognitions

• 91 pts – Wine Enthusiast: “Lovely and affordable… characteristic red and black‑currant, pencil‑lead and eucalyptus aromas… with chocolate and charred wood” 

• 93–94 pts – Wine‑Searcher critic score (for “Collection Margaret River Cabernet‑Merlot” range)