The ratio of Sauvignon Blanc to Semillon in each vintage is varied to take into account how each of those varieties performs in that vintage. Thus, the Sauvignon Blanc was so outstanding in 2005 that it was decided that this variety should comprise the vast majority of this classic blend in this year.

The 2005 ranks with 1999 and 2002 as exceptional among recent vintages for white wines at Cullen Wines. The growing season up to December was dry and cool. The yields were low due to the production of small bunches with small berries, but these possessed extraordinarily intense flavours. Because of their low yields, the grapes ripened early, with the result that all of the Sauvignon Blanc was harvested before the end of March compared with during April as in a typical vintage. The marri trees in March were also adorned with abundant blossom, which meant that the birds, and particularly the silvereyes, were diverted to other sources of food than grapes.

The Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon were picked at an average Baumé of 13º. Twenty seven percent of the wine underwent barrel fermentation in new French oak using wild yeasts and this component was matured for five months in this oak.