Margaret River edges ahead of Coonawarra in cabernet

The world’s most prestigious wine publication has suggested Margaret River now leads the nation in its signature cabernet sauvignon.

The report, from the latest issue of Decanter magazine, said the Margaret River reds now eclipsed even those produced in South Australia’s Coonawarra region.

Wine writer Sarah Ahmed sampled wines from Xanadu, Woodlands, Domaine Naturaliste, Capel Vale and Fraser-Gallop, among others.

She said the strength of cabernet from Wilyabrup was a strong argument for official recognition of the subregion.

Recognition of Wilyabrup as an official subregion has seen a divergence in views within the Margaret River wine industry, with the Margaret River Wine Association not supporting a push by a core band of Wilyabrup producers to get the official classification.

MRWA chief executive Amanda Whiteland said cabernet sauvignon was the world’s most popular variety.

“It is great that highly regarded wine magazine Decanter and wine critic Sarah Ahmed recognises Margaret River as a first port of call for top-value New World Cabernet,” she said.

Fraser-Gallop Estate owner Nigel Gallop told the Times the recognition strengthened the case for Wilyabrup’s official listing as a subregion.

Fraser-Gallop’s cabernet was scored in the top 10 of the wines reviewed.

“The main point was the strength of Margaret River generally,” he said.

“It was a very, very strong endorsement of the Margaret River region.”

Author: Warren Hately, The West Australian, Friday 18th March