The vineyard is planted to Cabernet sauvignon (50%), Merlot (25%), Cabernet franc (15%), Malbec (5%) and Petit verdot (5%). The percentage of each variety that goes into the final blend changes with the season as factors such as fruitfulness and fruit set vary.
The greatest influence over the quality of this wine is deciding when to pick each variety. This determines not only the flavours but the quality of tannins, the acid and alcohol levels. These varieties ferment on skins for around 12-14 days.
Totally opaque black dark red colour with a bright dark purple red hue. The nose presents a lovely combination of red to black currant, violet and ripe mulberry aromatics followed by complexing elements of dusty earth, vanillin cedar, faint notions of sweet tobacco and spicy fresh herb notes. Showing great finesse and class a wave of rich red and black currant fruits ride the medium weighted palate underscored by ripe mulberry, earthy graphite characters, subtle dusty cedar, dried herbs and spice. Graceful power with beautifully refined tannins seamlessly integrated with the fruit and a youthful freshness – the framework ideal for long term cellaring. Concludes with a long, elegant finish that’s layered with perfectly ripened red fruits.
Cellar 10-20 years.
This is a great edition of this standard bearer for elegant Yarra Valley claret. The nose is detailed and fresh with a central theme of red and dark berries, cedar, cocoa powder, violet-like florals and light leafy notes. The palate has such expressiveness with impressively vibrant red cherries, plums and berries, all in unison with faultlessly fine, long and seamless tannins. This is delicious now and will age so well. The greatest Quintet ever? Certainly in my lifetime!
99 points
Nick Stock - JamesSuckling.com
| Wine Type | Red wine |
| Producer | Mount Mary Vineyard |
| State | Victoria |
| Region | Yarra Valley |
| Variety | Cabernet sauvignon Merlot Cabernet franc Malbec Petit verdot |
| Year | 2018 |
| Volume | 750 mL |
| Alcohol | 13% |
