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 wonderful balance of power and restraint, with complex aromas sitting on the edge of reduction — preserved lemons, lanolin, honeysuckle, struck matches, crushed stones, citrus blossoms and white stone fruits. The palate has seamless texture and weight, in harmony with a core of fruit-supported, tightly wound acidity and a mineral drive. The concentration leaves you salivating for minutes. Great nerve and tension bring this wine together. Truly excellent. Drink or hold. Screw cap. Date: Aug 2025; Rating: 98 Points; James Suckling

20% whole-bunch pressed, the balance crushed and destemmed. Matured in French puncheons and barriques (30% new) for 11 months. A concentrated Mount Mary Chardonnay where the volume has been turned up in '23! An intense bouquet of white peach, confit lemon, fresh vanilla bean and oyster shells. There's a lot going on and this follows perfectly onto the mouth-filling, powerful, structured and harmonious palate. This will give pleasure for at least 10 if not 15-plus years. Date: Feb 2025; Alcohol: 13.5%; Price: $185.00; Drink by: 2030; Rating: 97 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion