Woody Nook Gallagher’s Choice Cabernet

By Fergal Gleeson*

I like quiet achievers. People who do their thing with excellence without making too much fuss about it…

You may not have heard of Woody Nook? They are a down to earth bunch, making wine in Margaret River since 1982. They produce a relatively modest 7,500 dozen bottles a year from their base in Wilyabrup.

Everybody wears a few hats in the vineyard, in the winery and in the business. Critics and wine show judges know about them though- they’ve collected over 300 awards including 11 trophies.

Woody Nook Gallagher’s Choice Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

This was awarded “Best Australian Red” at the International Wine Challenge in London in 2015. That’s quite a coup. It’s not a Bronze Medal in the Pullamadoodle Wine Show but one of 3 trophies they collected at the IWC for this wine. Never get excited by Pullamadoodle Wine Show medals or equivalents. Take note of IWC trophies.

This is a powerful, bristling cabernet with a dense and inky texture. Lovers of big, traditional Aussie reds will be satisfied as it ticks all the cabernet boxes. Chief Winemaker Neil Gallagher told me that he knew this was a beauty, once the wine had a little barrel age. The Woody Nook flagship drinks well now but will undoubtedly improve in the next 5-25 years.

Rating 4/5. RRP $65.

Woody Nook Gallagher’s Choice Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

The 2014 is now also on release. Neil told me that they picked a bit later in season making for a riper style. The difference in vintage is clear in the glass. The 2014 is silkier and smoother in style, making it more approachable early in life. I don’t know if they entered this in London but it’s a nose ahead of the 2013. Top stuff!

Rating 4.5/5 RRP $65.

Both wines are available at  www.woodynook.com.au  or at the cellar door.

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*Finalist- New Wine Writer of the Year 2016- WCA /Gourmet Traveller WINE