Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Franc. Woodlands have observed that some parcels of their vineyard produce aromatic ferments, while others are more structured. The finest pickings are treated to small open fermenters enhancing aromatics. Parcels showing greater structure are vinified in small closed fermenters. The best of both worlds, a Cabernet that retains vibrant aromatic fruit whilst gaining structure and adding weight. After a year in exclusively new French oak, the best barrels of vintage are determined and set aside for the final assemblage.

Fruit is sourced from the original estate plantings of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Franc, on a south facing, sandy loam over gravel clay slope. These small plots receive the greatest number of sunlight hours at Woodlands, the east west orientation of vines ensures a slow ripening, the last parcels to be harvested each year. Fruit is picked late March to early April, destemmed and passed over a vibrating sorting table, crushed and vinified in small closed fermenters, followed by a term of maceration on skins before being pressed for malolactic. Upon completion, batches are transferred to new French medium toast barrels for nineteen months maturation.