98 Points James Halliday | Floral Elegance and Velveteen Structure

My Wine Man on Vasse Felix

Vasse Felix is one of the defining names of Margaret River Cabernet, a producer whose appeal rests on expressive fruit, savoury detail and structure. Its flagship Tom Cullity brings Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec together in a wine that rewards attention rather than demanding it through sheer weight.

The 2019 makes its impression through fragrance, texture and length. Floral lift and blue-fruited charm sit alongside savoury complexity, while velveteen tannins and a fine line of acidity give the wine shape. For us, this is the attraction of a serious Margaret River blend: concentration with detail, and structure that supports the fruit rather than overwhelming it. Open it for a carefully chosen dinner, give it room to breathe, and let the conversation slow down as the wine unfolds.

Tasting Notes

Violet and lavender bring an expressive floral opening, followed by blueberry and bramble fruit. Warming spices add depth to an aromatic profile that remains wonderfully savoury rather than simply sweet-fruited. The palate combines charm and detail with excellent structure, its velveteen tannins providing a supple frame. Fine acidity threads through the fruit and spice, carrying the wine into a long, poised finish. 98 Points, James Halliday.

Style & Drinking Window

Medium- to full-bodied, fragrant and finely structured, with velvety tannins and refreshing acidity. Our suggested drinking window is 2026–2045, depending on storage and your preference for youthful perfume or mature savoury complexity. For drinking now, start with a 60–120 minute decant, tasting as it opens, and serve at 16–18°C. The combination of structure, acidity and length makes this a thoughtful candidate for further cellaring.

Food Pairing

The floral perfume, blueberry and bramble fruit, and velveteen tannins of the 2019 Vasse Felix Tom Cullity Cabernet Sauvignon Malbec make it a beautifully balanced match for Australian Sher Wagyu Ribeye M5 Steak (Frozen) from My Meat Man. The wine's blueberry depth complements the rib-eye's rich, succulent texture, while its warming spices echo the savoury character of a well-browned crust. Fine acidity refreshes between bites and the supple tannins give the pairing definition, whether the steak is charcoal-grilled, pan-seared with thyme, or reverse-seared and finished in a hot skillet. Keep sauces restrained so the wine's violet and lavender notes can shine alongside the beef.

Why This Is a Smart Buy

At HK$1,388, this is a considered choice for a special dinner or a patient cellar. The 98-point Halliday rating is a strong starting point, but the more lasting appeal lies in its fragrant fruit, finely judged structure and long finish. For drinkers who favour perfume and texture over sheer weight, the 2019 offers a compelling expression of Tom Cullity, with enough detail to make a memorable pairing with a premium steak.

Looking for a Different Style?

2016 Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon: focused cassis and firm tannins, with classic Margaret River precision.

2017 Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon: cedar, cassis and a refined, classically structured profile.

2021 Greenock Creek Cabernet Sauvignon: a richer Barossa expression with opulent dark fruit and structured depth.