Mount Mary Yarra Valley Quintet 2018

Winemaking and Drinking

The Mount Mary Yarra Valley Quintet 2018 is an exemplary wine that embodies the essence of the Yarra Valley’s rich viticultural heritage. The history of this wine dates back to the establishment of Mount Mary Vineyard by Dr. John Middleton in 1971. Situated in the heart of the Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia, Mount Mary quickly garnered a reputation for producing some of the finest Bordeaux-style blends in the country. The 2018 vintage is a testament to this enduring legacy, capturing the spirit of both the vineyard and its founder.

Terroir and Vineyard Specifics

Mount Mary’s vineyard is strategically located on the slopes of the Yarra Valley, benefiting from a unique combination of soil types, elevation, and climate. The terroir is predominantly composed of grey loam over a clay subsoil, with pockets of sandy loam that contribute to the complexity of the wines. The cool climate of the Yarra Valley, with its long growing season and moderate temperatures, allows for the gradual ripening of grapes, essential for developing nuanced flavors and balanced acidity.

The Quintet is a blend of five classic Bordeaux grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Each variety is meticulously cultivated in separate vineyard blocks, ensuring that the unique characteristics of each grape are preserved. The 2018 vintage benefited from an ideal growing season, with moderate temperatures and minimal rainfall, leading to an exceptional harvest of high-quality grapes.

Winemaking Process

The winemaking process at Mount Mary is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The grapes for the Quintet are handpicked and sorted to ensure only the finest fruit is used. Fermentation takes place in small, temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to maintain the integrity of the fruit. Post fermentation, the wine is aged in a combination of new and seasoned French oak barrels for approximately 22 months. This careful aging process allows the wine to develop its complexity and integrate the oak seamlessly.

Tasting Notes 

The Mount Mary Yarra Valley Quintet 2018 is a wine of remarkable elegance and depth. On the nose, it exhibits a vibrant bouquet of aromas that include blackcurrant, dark cherry, and plum, complemented by subtle notes of cedar, tobacco, and graphite. There is a delicate hint of violet and dried herbs that adds an extra layer of sophistication to the aromatic profile.

On the palate, the Quintet 2018 is impeccably balanced, showcasing a rich core of dark fruit flavors intertwined with nuances of chocolate, spice, and earthy undertones. The tannins are finely structured, providing a silky texture that enhances the wine’s overall finesse. The finish is long and persistent, with a harmonious blend of fruit and oak that lingers gracefully.

Awards and Accolades

The Mount Mary Yarra Valley Quintet 2018 has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It has been awarded high scores by prestigious wine critics and publications. Notable accolades include:

• James Halliday's Wine Companion: 98 points, highlighting its impeccable structure and aging potential.
• Decanter World Wine Awards: Gold Medal, praising its complexity and balance.
• International Wine Challenge: Trophy for Best Bordeaux Blend, recognizing its outstanding quality and craftsmanship.

These accolades underscore the Quintet 2018’s status as one of the finest wines to emerge from the Yarra Valley.

The Mount Mary Yarra Valley Quintet 2018 is a stellar representation of the vineyard’s dedication to producing world class wines. Its origins in the rich soils of the Yarra Valley, combined with meticulous vineyard management and winemaking techniques, result in a wine that is both a pleasure to drink now and one that promises to evolve beautifully with age. The numerous awards and high praise it has received are a testament to its exceptional quality and the enduring legacy of Mount Mary Vineyard.