Established in 1977 by Irishman Dr John Lagan, the Xanadu vineyards now owned by the Rathbone family continue to flourish in a near-perfect viticultural environment that inspired Dr Lagan; rich free draining gravel soils; an abundant water supply and a unique maritime climate. Winemaker Glenn Goodall mirrors the original vision; to produce premium wines that reflect the true character of the region in synergy with the environment and vineyards. 

The wine displays vibrant, characteristic Cabernet aromas of cassis, mulberries, and blue fruits entwined with hints of mocha, nori, and potpourri. The palate is full-bodied yet refined, the generous palate offers a core of inky berry fruits; boysenberry, blackcurrants and Satsuma plums. Dense and well-structured, the palate is layered with these dark fleshy fruit characteristics and ripe tannins which culminate through to a persistent Cabernet finish. Cabernet Sauvignon (90%), Malbec (6%), Petit Verdot (4%)

Gold Medal & 95 Points - National Wine Show of Australia 2024
Gold Medal & 96 Points - Margaret River Wine Show 2023
Gold Medal & 95 Points - Royal Queensland Wine Show 2023

Another fantastic wine that continues the line that winemaker Goodall established some years ago. It is a wine that always delivers so much above its price point. This is a tighter and slightly firmer expression of Margaret River cabernet than the 2020, yet there is plenty of power and drive through an intense and concentrated palate. Perfumed aromas of blackcurrant and bay leaf with a trace of edgy black olive. The structural core provides so much poise to a wine that will cellar exceptionally well. Date: July 2023; Rating: 96 Points & Best of the Best Wine of 2023; Ray Jordan

Year in year out this cabernet delivers – even in difficult years such as 2021 (rain events and high humidity during harvest). If anything, this is quite tight and needs more time in the cellar, if you can’t wait, decant. It reveals an exuberant fruit profile, given its youth, from mulberries and cassis to blackberries all offset by complex savoury notes, think nori, iodine and tapenade, a flutter of spice, too and a little smoky. It’s fine boned in a way, as it’s just medium-bodied with filigree tannins, neat acidity and a radicchio bitterness to finish. I kept coming back to this wine – it unfurled in the glass but also, a few days later, still impressive. Date: Sept 2023; Alcohol: 14%; Price: $40.00; Drink by: 2035; Rating: 95 Points & Special Value Star; Jane Faulkner; James Halliday Wine Companion