1997 Mount Mary Quintet

98 Points - Nick's Wine Merchant, Nick's Wine Merchant

“An extraordinary bottle of wine, even 'blind freddy' can tell that it's 'posh'. This wine definitely draws its inspiration from Bordeaux First Growth, and in particular, Chateau Lafite and Chateau Latour in its finesse and construction. It's almost impossible to compare this wine with other Australian reds, as neither its structure or flavour conforms to an Australian norm. It is without a doubt a world class wine. Made by Mario Marson, John Middleton's winemaker at Mount Mary, the wine is a reaffirmation of the fact that Australia is capable of producing First Growth quality and finesse. Deep crimson colour, with purple mauve hues. Superb complex aristocratic nose, powerful aromas of violets, blackcurrant, spice and cedar fill in the nose with an aire of grace and confidence only seen in First Growths. The palate is superbly structured - elegant, and yet filled with remarkable power and concentration of flavour. A seamless marriage of component parts - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot. Exquisite balance with very long aftertaste of cedar, violets and blackcurrants. A totally refined experience. James Halliday From the outset Mount Mary produced wines of rare finesse and purity. Today its star shines brighter than that of any of the 169 producers in the Yarra Valley. The Quintet stands proudly at the head of the portfolio. Overview: The Mount Mary Quintet is one of the iconic wines of Australia and one of the jewels of the Yarra Valley. It is a blend of the five Bordeaux varieties - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot - sourced from the Yarra's most revered vineyard. Mount Mary Quintet is one of 'Langton's Heritage Five' which celebrates Australia's most exceptional and ground-breaking wines.”