Origins and History
Mount Mary is a family owned, single vineyard estate located in the heart of the Yarra Valley. The region is in the south-eastern corner of Australia, east of Melbourne in Victoria. Established in 1971, Mount Mary was one of the pioneers in the revival of the Yarra Valley as a premium wine region. Dr. Middleton, a Melbourne-based physician with a fervent interest in wine, sought to create an Australian vineyard that could rival the best in the world. His meticulous approach and commitment to excellence laid the foundation for what would become one of Australia's most esteemed wineries.
The site for Mount Mary was chosen for its unique terroir. Located on the eastern slopes of the Yarra Valley, the vineyard benefits from a cool climate, which is ideal for producing high-quality, elegant wines. The soil, rich in volcanic ash and clay, provides the perfect conditions for growing a range of grape varieties. From the beginning, Dr. Middleton's philosophy was to create wines that were not only reflective of their terroir but also capable of ageing gracefully.
The Vineyards
The vineyards at Mount Mary cover approximately 40 hectares, with about half of this area under vine. The primary grape varieties grown include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The careful selection of these varieties was driven by Dr. Middleton’s desire to produce wines that could express the true potential of the Yarra Valley.
The vineyard management practices at Mount Mary are centered around sustainability and minimal intervention. The team at Mount Mary believes that the quality of the wine starts in the vineyard. They employ a range of techniques to ensure the health and vitality of the vines, including organic and biodynamic practices, cover cropping, and minimal use of chemicals. This holistic approach not only enhances the quality of the fruit but also ensures the long-term sustainability of the vineyard.
Winemaker: Sam Middelton
The Winemaker
Sam Middleton, the grandson of Dr. John Middleton, is the current winemaker at Mount Mary. Having grown up immersed in the world of winemaking, Sam carries forward the family legacy with the same passion and dedication. He joined the family business in 2008 after completing a Bachelor of Oenology and has since played a pivotal role in maintaining the high standards set by his grandfather.
Sam’s winemaking philosophy is deeply rooted in respect for tradition while embracing innovation. He focuses on small-batch production, allowing for meticulous attention to detail at every stage of the winemaking process. Sam is a strong advocate for letting the vineyard speak through the wine, ensuring that each bottle of Mount Mary is a true reflection of its terroir.
The Wines
Mount Mary produces a range of wines that have garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally. The winery is particularly renowned for its flagship wine, the Quintet, a Bordeaux-style blend. The Quintet is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. It is celebrated for its complexity, elegance, and ability to age gracefully. Each vintage of the Quintet is a testament to the skill and dedication of the winemaking team.
In addition to the Quintet, Mount Mary produces a highly regarded Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Triolet, a white Bordeaux-style blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle. The Pinot Noir is known for its finesse and balance, showcasing the classic characteristics of the Yarra Valley. The Chardonnay is equally esteemed, offering a harmonious blend of fruit and minerality with a subtle oak influence. The Triolet, although lesser-known, is a standout wine that exemplifies the versatility and quality of Mount Mary’s offerings.
Awards and Accolades
Over the years, Mount Mary Wines has received numerous awards and accolades, cementing its reputation as one of Australia’s premier wineries. The Quintet has been consistently praised by wine critics and has received high scores from publications such as James Halliday’s Wine Companion and Wine Spectator. Notably, the 2015 Quintet was awarded 99 points by James Halliday, who described it as “a wine of sublime elegance and power.”
The Chardonnay and Pinot Noir have also garnered significant recognition. The 2013 Mount Mary Chardonnay was awarded the Trophy for Best Chardonnay at the Royal Melbourne Wine Awards, and the 2017 Pinot Noir received a Gold Medal at the Yarra Valley Wine Show. These accolades reflect the unwavering commitment to quality that defines Mount Mary Wines.