The vineyard is planted to Cabernet sauvignon (46%), Merlot (26%), Cabernet franc (18%), 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 we have over the quality of this wine is deciding when to pick each variety. This determines not only the flavours but the quality of tannins, and the acid and alcohol levels. The fermentation regime is similar to that of the Pinot, although slightly longer fermentations are employed (up to 12 days). This is followed by 22 months of barrel maturation, with 25% of the blend in large format oak (1500L or larger), and 30% in new barriques (225L).
release tasting notes:
Like the Chardonnay, the 2014 Quintet shows all the attributes of a quintessential Mount Mary Quintet. This release seems slightly more dominated by Cabernet sauvignon characters rather than Merlot, as was the case with the 2013 vintage. As Dr John would often tell us “Good Cabernet should smell like Cabernet, let’s not over-complicate it”. This wine is a great example of that. The aromas are dominated by violets, cherries, cassis and spice. There is a level of vibrancy to the wine, only seen at such a young age in the very best vintages. The palate is built around beautifully ripe, ultra-fine grained tannin. The mid palate is rich, long and expansive and shows all five varietals quite clearly playing their role and adding complexity.