2023 Ephraim
Ephraim Mayo Clarke, Kevin John Cullen’s grandfather, property owner and Member of Parliament, who established the first winery in the southwest in Bunbury in 1896. Hand harvested grapes of the best blocks of biodynamically certified Mangan Vineyard Malbec and Petit Verdot were naturally fermented and basket pressed and then matured in 35% new oak for 8 months.
The resultant blend is 70% Malbec and 30% Petit Verdot. A naturally fermented wine with no additions other than minimal sulphur dioxide to catch the terroir of Mangan vineyard in Wilyabrup. The 2023 vintage was excellent especially for red and colour and this wine is no exception. No fining.
Vintage Notes
Vintage 2023 was a low yielding vintage which resulted in some stunning grapes and hence quality wine. In particular Cabernet Sauvignon exhibited the best typicity of varietal manifestation. The 52 year old vines consistently yield well year on year out.
The growing conditions until December were cold and wet and due to the negative Indian dipole and La Niña effects finishing in December 2022 we had an unprecedented dry spell from December until the end of harvest.
Small berry size particularly in white grape varieties produced beautifully balanced wines; Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay, Cabernet and Malbec all outstanding.
Winemaker Notes
Vineyard: 100% Mangan vineyard
Varieties: 70% Malbec, 30% Petit Verdot
Harvest Dates: 23rd March – New Moon Super Moon flower day, and 30th March – flower day
Alcohol: 13.5%
Oak: 35% New oak for 8 months
Tasting Notes
$50.00
Previous Releases
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2015 Mangan East Block
This vintage is a blend of 80% Malbec and 20% Petit Verdot. It was naturally fermented, basket pressed and then matured for 7 months in equal portions of new and seasoned French oak.
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2019 Mangan East Block
This quality wine was produced on a certified Biodynamic, Carbon Neutral and naturally powered estate. This vintage is a blend of 81% Malbec and 19% Petit Verdot.
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2020 Mangan East Block
Made from 100% Mangan Vineyard fruit. A blend of 82% Malbec and 18% Petit Verdot, there were very low yields of Petit Verdot in 2020.
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2018 Mangan East Block
The grapes were harvested from the prime selections of the eastern blocks of the Mangan vineyard, as usual showcasing the best of the specific season.
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2016 Mangan East Block Magnum
The grapes were harvested from the prime selections of the eastern blocks of the Mangan vineyard. Excellent growing season with good spring rains.
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