Cullen

Di Cullen and her husband Dr Kevin Cullen planted A trial acre of vines in the Margaret River region in 1966 on land which they bought as a coastal getaway. It was to mark the beginning of Margaret River as a wine region. The encouraging results led to the couple planting 18 acres of vines on their sheep and cattle farm in 1971.

Di Cullen assumed the mantle of winemaker in 1981, when Kevin became more deeply involved in medical research. Di carried on the winemaking with great distinction and innovation until she handed over duties to daughter Vanya in 1989.

Cullen Wines has since evolved into an estate specialising in quality wines from single vineyard sites. Today the vineyard extends to 28 hectares and the wines produced are in great demand. Vanya holds both a science degree and a diploma of oenology and her hands-on style shows intimate sympathy with the vineyard and astute handling in the winery. Vanya is possessed of one of the best palates anywhere, and it is a rare asset which allows her to judge when the grapes reach optimum ripeness. Under Vanya, a commitment to & belief in organic practices has lead to organic certification in 2003.