96 Points - Erin Larkin
Moss Wood have an internationally recognised reputation for producing some of the finest examples of Cabernet outside of Bordeaux. Since the Mugford’s purchased the Ribbon Vale Vineyard back in 2000, they have been working tirelessly in the vineyard and in the winery to produce the best Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot they could from this site.
The 2019 Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Cabernet Sauvignon is another masterful Margaret River blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec this is full-bodied and complex, with redcurrant and mulberry fruit flavours running the full length of the palate and the finish has toasty oak and firm but balance tannins.
"96 Points. The 2018 Ribbon Vale Cabernet Sauvignon almost had me falling off my chair it was so good. This is no different. Like the '18, it is silky, sumptuous and very fine: red fruited, floral, spicy and shaped by fine, chalky tannins. It is a superstar, and at $72, a bargain for the quality you receive. If you're a fan of Moss Wood cabernet, this is the wine you should drink while you wait for the MW to come of age. 14% alc. $72. Drink by 2037"- Erin Larkin, winecompanion.com.au.
"95 Points. The Ribbon Vale wines always raise the dreaded debate about ‘2nd labels’. I know that they are not 2nd wines at all, but I am also aware that a lot of winelovers see them as that. The best argument is what is in the bottle and I have no doubt that many wineries would be over the moon if they could offer their ‘first label’ at this level of quality. Production was very similar to that used for the Merlot, though the Cabernet spent 16 days on skins and 26% of the barrels were new. The final blend is 91% Cabernet Sauvignon and then 3% each of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Colours are crimson, purple and magenta. A gorgeous nose with plums, cassis, mulberries, blackcurrants and cloves with hints of cedar. There is a fine boned structure here with generous flesh and a purity of flavour that is seriously impressive. Excellent focus, silky tannins, brilliant length, with at least a good decade ahead of it. This is a superb RV Cabernet, one of their best. Drink: 2021-2032"- Ken Gargett, winepilot.com
"95 Points | Outstanding. Ripe, fruity, varietal and nicely complex bouquet without being overdone. Aromas of black berries and dark plums, violets and dried herb, some tobacco and bell-pepper layers then scents of fresh new wood and mild toasty spices. Equally complex and delicious on the palate with flavours of violets and red berries to reflect the bouquet. Firm tannins and acid line reflect the variety and provide the correct structure for this wine style. Lovely long finish. Best drinking from 2023 through 2035+"- Cam Douglas, camdouglasms.com.
