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.

Destemmed and fermented with as many whole berries as possible. 15 months in French barriques (25% new). A medium, bright crimson. A gorgeous bouquet of red cherry, black raspberry, dark rose and allspice. This follows through onto the medium-bodied, silkily textured, fragrant and very long palate. The tannins are superfine and, as delicious as this is now, it will only become even more complex over the next six to 10 years. Date: Feb 2026; Alcohol: 13.5%; Drink by: 2036; Rating: 97+ Points; James Halliday Wine Companion

This is a more hearty sort of Pinot Noir. Poached strawberry, red cherry, rhubarb, roses, a bit of five spice, with something of an earthy autumnal cast. It’s medium-bodied, has a bit of chew and orange peel amaro character, a fine grainy feel to tannin, with a nutty and spicy finish of good length. Kind of stoic in presentation, but a good wine all up. It will age well, and surely, like all MM Pinots, though it’s maybe not one of the best releases of this wine. Date: Aug 2026; Alcohol: 13.5%; Closure: Diam; Drink: 2028-2037+; Rated: 94+ Points; Gary Walsh; The Wine Front