Last time this wine was produced was 1995. It has taken 14 vintages but the Mugfords are finally happy that they have got the Ribbon Vale vineyard where they want it to be and can release a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon as the premier wine from the property.
The 2013 Moss Wood Ribbonvale has a deep brick red colour and is in bright condition. The nose is classic, almost old-fashioned Wilyabrup cabernet sauvignon, showing all the hallmarks of the region and taking us back to the future – you could almost be tasting a 1983.
There are aromas of redcurrant, mulberry and blackberry with the typical background of a touch of eucalypt and tar and behind this is a touch of spicy, toasty oak. The palate is full bodied, with generous red and black fruits. Whereas with the Merlot there is brightness and freshness, this wine has density and concentration. The tannins are firm and provide a long platform upon which the fruit flavours sit and yet the wine finishes with roundness and balance.
Halliday says: ’92 % cabernet sauvignon, plus 4% each of cabernet franc and merlot, half destemmed to a small open fermenter, the other half to a static fermenter, plunged or pumped over accordingly, matured in French barriques (8% new) for 28 months. A forthright cabernet, medium to full-bodied with fruit, oak and tannins all making significant contributions. It is easy to see why the wine was given such a lengthy stay in oak – it must have been a handful when young. Even now it is chock-full of blackcurrant and bay leaf fruit.'
Product/Service Sold Out | Yes |
---|---|
En Primeur | No |
New Arrivals | No |
Wine Type | Red Wine |
Wine Style | Traditional |
Country | Australia |
Region | Margaret River |
Varietals | Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot |
Vintage | 2013 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |