The History
The year was 1966. Dr. John Gladstones, a professor at the University of Western Australia, published a conclusive report about Margaret River’s viticultural potential. Amazing similarities to Bordeaux were clear, and a few enthusiasts chose to try the theory for themselves.
Just one year later, an eccentric cardiologist based in Perth, Dr. Tom Cullity, planted the first vineyards in the region: the Vasse Felix Vineyard was born.
A steep learning curve let the pioneering estate to gain recognition fast, harvesting medals at wine shows around the country.
The winery has changed hands two times, one to former winemaker David Gregg, and the other one to the billionaire Holmes a Court family.
The Estate
Vasse Felix organically manages 260 hectares of vines, including the oldest plot in the region. They grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.
All wines are produced and bottled in a state-of-the-art winery that includes an art gallery, a prominent restaurant (check out my review on Instagram), and a permanent historical exhibition.
The People
Bart Molony tends the vines while Virginia Willcock makes the wine.
Mr. Molony practices sustainable viticulture. With 20 vintages under his belt, he grows some of the best Chardonnays and Cabernets in the country and the world.
Mrs. Willcock is one of the most awarded female winemakers in Australia, and her avant-garde winemaking style is inspirational. Her curiosity for microbiology has led her to experiment with wild-yeast fermentations. The results are remarkable.
The Wines
Apart from Vasse Felix two iconic wines: Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon and the Heytesbury Chardonnay, the winery makes second tier “Premier” wines, a youthful Filius Collection and table wine.
Filius wine series offers the best value and are worthy of mention.
Filius Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic, structured wine made in an early drinking style. Fruit-forward, it shows black currants and dark cherries with hints of undergrowth. Dusty tannins and a good length make this wine a classic, versatile Cabernet.
Filius Chardonnay is bright and vivid. Hints of new oak form a balanced blend between golden apple and pineapple aromas with scents of vanilla, lemon curd and almonds. Tangy, yet creamy this Chardonnay over delivers.
The Blanc de Blancs sparkling wine is a real surprise. Made with fruit from selected Chardonnay clones from the coolest sites, this wine is complex and rich. It resembles grower Champaign. Reminiscent of citrus peel, beeswax, and buttered almonds, this wine is elegant and sophisticated. Made in a brut style, it’s versatile at the table.
Final Thoughts
Vasse Felix wines proudly represent the terroir and sentiment of the region, and they’re far from complacent, with every vintage, they’re aiming up and forward.
