97 Points - Ray Jordan | Last Stocks
Moss Wood have an internationally recognised reputation for producing some of the finest examples of Cabernet and Merlot outside of Bordeaux. Since the Mugford’s purchased the Ribbon Vale Vineyard back in 2000, they have been working tirelessly to produce the best possible examples of these varietals they could from this site.
The 2018 vintage is talked about as one of the greatest in Margaret River and there's little doubt the new Moss Wood Ribbon Vale releases are the finest yet under this label.
“97 Points. I recently tasted the 2018 Ribbon Vale merlot and am convinced this is the best example yet of this variety. Great vintage, sure, but everything about the wine from the structure to the expressive fruit aromas and texture suggests the vineyard and winemaking have come of age, even judged against Mugford’s demanding self-appraisal. It is the best example of controlled tannin management I have yet seen from a vineyard known for its assertive tannins. A vintage that produced some spellbinding wines and this is right up there with some of the best. This is high-class merlot displaying power and poise. The structure and combination of oak fruit and tannin is excellent. Leafy fruit with a trace of black fruits and dark plum. The palate has a grainy texture accentuated by the chalky tannins. Moss Wood has put a lot of time in managing this vineyard which they bought some years ago, with a particular emphasis on tannins. This is a merlot that makes quite a statement.”- Ray Jordan, The Weekend West Australian.
”96 Points. Pretty, succulent red fruits are all wrapped up in fine, shapely tannins. Supple, lithe and elegant. A beautiful wine. Screw cap. 14% alc. To 2041. $77”- Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion 2021.