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.

Best Pinot Noir of the Year - James Halliday Wine Companion Wine Awards 2026

2026 Pinot Noir of the Year. PR writes: Destemmed and fermented with as many whole berries as possible. 15 months in French barriques (25% new). First year using Diam as opposed to natural cork. Bright purple. Youthful with complex aromas of wild strawberry, boysenberry, potpourri, star anise and a little Sichuan pepper, even. Even better on the palate where old vines and low yields have conspired (along with the winemaker, Sam Middleton) to produce a supremely textured, layered and flawlessly balanced wine. The tannins are silky and very persistent, and this will be worth both the money and time for those that still have some 10–20 years from now. Date: Feb 2025; Alcohol: 13.5%; Drink by: 2040; Rating: 98 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion

Deeply scented with earthy, spice-driven aromas of black cherries, blackberry bushes, blood plums, purple flowers, wet earth, cured beef, Asian spices, potpourri and dried strawberries. The palate is textural, with finely tuned tannins and a high level of polish, offering a silken mouthfeel with no hard edges. Underlying notes of dried flowers, lead pencils, crushed blueberries and bark. Pure and refined, with dark, savory and brooding undertones. Drink or hold.  Aug 2025; Rating: 96 Points; James Suckling