Jane and Peter Thompson purchased the Thompson Estate property in 1994, and the first plantings of chardonnay and pinot were in 1997, followed by the cabernet plantings in 1998. From the outset at Thompson Estate, the focus has been on high quality wine production and this has been recognized in a large number of wine show medals and accolades from the wine press. The most treasured has been the recognition by James Halliday, Australia’s premier wine critic, that Thompson Estate is a Five Red Star winery, placing it in the top echelon of Australian wineries.

This classic Margaret River Cabernet bursts with blackcurrant, cassis, bay leaf and graphite, supported by fine, well-integrated oak. The palate is structured yet polished, displaying ripe dark fruits framed by firm tannins. Hints of cacao, cedar and dried herb add layers of complexity as the wine unfolds. A firm acid backbone gives precision, ensuring the wine remains balanced and long through the finish. It delivers both immediate drinkability and the hallmark longevity of the region's Cabernets. A superb expression of region and variety; poised, polished and classically proportioned. ★★★★★ Outstanding; Drink: 2025-2030; Rated: 96 Points; Vino Masters

A very fine Margaret River Cabernet, revealing, yet again, just why the region is so highly regarded for this variety. Dark maroon in colour, the nose exhibits notes of black cherries, florals, blueberries, sage, graphite and dried herbs. Linear in style with focus and direction, this is immaculately balanced with superb focus and a very long finish. Notwithstanding the concentration and seemingly endless flavours, this does offer some elegance – a narrow tightrope to walk but it manages it with class. Stunning stuff and a wine which will easily handle ten to twelve years in the cellar. Drink to: 2025-2037; Price: $60.00; Rating: 95 Points; Ken Gargett

Perfumed and highly scented cabernet from what turned out to be a pretty good year after the early heat. Blackcurrant and leafy dark plum with a little oyster shell minerality on the nose. The palate is still tightly held with an angular thread of tannins and tight fine-grained oak. Structured and regal. Drink to: 2025-2033; Price: $60.00; Rating: 94 Points; Ray Jordan