Mount Mary is one of the great small wineries of Australia, established by Dr John Middleton in 1972. Production is tiny. Mount Mary is noted for both the character and high quality of its wines. Since the first vintage in 1976, it has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. The vineyard faces due north and captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and Dr John’s fastidious respect for the landscape. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, whose son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has taken on the winemaking mantle with aplomb.

A 62/28/10% blend of sauvignon blanc/semillon/muscadelle. Barrel fermented and matured for 11 months in used barriques. The length of the palate is akin to that of the chardonnay, and the wine's balance guarantees growth in complexity that will build further over the next 5-plus years. Green apple, pear and lemon citrus intermingle on an already generous palate. Drink to: 2035; Price: $105.00; Date Tasted: Feb 2022; Alcohol: 13%; Rating: 95 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion

Wow. This is pretty wild and very intense. Blackcurrant, fresh cut fennel, violets, spice, funk, nettles, lime rind. It’s showtime! Tight and tangy, all grapefruit and passionfruit, a glossy feel, but so flinty and sapid, thistle and zest, flinty texture on a long grapefruit pith finish. This is quite a wine. Embryonic as at now, and it feels so built for ageing. Excellent, but quite a different style for Triolet. I really like it. Tasted: Sept 2022; Alcohol: 13%; Drink: 2024-2035+; Rated: 95 Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front