Wine Enthusiast 96:
A fabulous vintage of Filius, and a total bargain for this level of quality. Layered aromas appear from first sniff: plump currants and plums, dark chocolate, savory herbs and florals, graphite and a mineral, iodine-like nuance. In the mouth, there's bright fruit and silky texture, with savory, fine tannins and a long, elegant finish. Made to drink now or to age for several more years. A wonderful intro to this distinctive Aussie style.
And 95 for Winepilot:
90.4% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9.6% Malbec and yes the decimal point of a percentage was scrutinised over. This is Vasse Felix, don’t you know?! Well in case you didn’t, the red wine program at Vasse is something you need to taste to be believed. From this humble $30 right to the pointy end, it’s the work of magicians. Here you’ll find boysenberry, blackcurrants, figs and sandalwood. Black cherry, balsamic glaze and olive leaf. Rosemary stem and wild thyme. The flavour palate is long and mighty, with grainy tannins and a sleek drive of acidity. Swiss mushroom and potting soil. Utterly memorable now and will cellar well for another 10 years. How do they do it? Never mind, I believe in magic. Serve with a good Irish beef stew.
Just a gorgeous example of why the Margaret River is considered one of the world’s supreme sources of top-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.
I didn’t think Vasse Felix could even equal the wonderful 2021 Filius that sold so well last year – and was in fact the Wine Spectator’s #2 “Value Wine of the Year.” But this one exceeds it!
