Moss Wood Amy's Cabernet Blend 2023

Product Information:
The 2023 Amy's Cabernet Blend offers outstanding value and shows plenty of promise. This blend consists of 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 6% Malbec, and 6% Petit Verdot. The nose bursts with bright aromas of cherry chocolate, blueberry, blackberry, marshmallow, and rose, underpinned by tarry cedar and toasted oak notes. These elements are elevated on the palate, supported by a firm tannin structure. The gentle but persistent acidity harmonises well with the fine texture derived from French oak, creating a balanced and elegant wine.

The fruit was hand-picked and carefully sorted at the winery before being destemmed. The must was pumped into stainless steel fermenters and inoculated for primary fermentation. During this process, pump-overs were conducted three times per day to enhance colour and flavour extraction. After fermentation, the wine was pressed and transferred to 228L French oak barriques, none of which were new, for aging.

Maker:
Established in 1969, Moss Wood is one of the founding estates of the Margaret River wine region, located in the northern sub-region of Wilyabrup, Western Australia. Clare and Keith Mugford have been at the helm as winemakers, viticulturists, and proprietors since 1984 and 1979, respectively. Their dedication to viticulture ensures that Moss Wood produces exceptional grapes, resulting in consistently high-quality wines that age superbly. Moss Wood’s Cabernet Sauvignon has been ranked in the Langton’s ‘Exceptional’ category since 1991, and the estate’s other varietals—such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Semillon—have also received acclaim for their quality and longevity.

The Moss Wood approach is deeply rooted in the belief that quality is determined in the vineyard. Their viticultural techniques are constantly reassessed and informed by ongoing research, resulting in continuous improvements in trellising, soil conservation, and pruning practices. Located in one of the most isolated and pristine grape-growing regions globally, Moss Wood is part of the Margaret River wine region, which is particularly celebrated for its Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Vineyard:
The 2022/23 growing season was exceptionally favourable, with 1,114 mm of rainfall—9% above average—providing excellent soil moisture. Flowering conditions were near perfect, with just 38.6 mm of rain and minimal temperature drops. The summer was mild to warm, with an average temperature of 19°C, creating optimal conditions for photosynthesis and minimal heat stress. Despite a slightly lower yield of 5.89 t/ha, the mature 48-year-old vines ensured high-quality fruit due to their deep root systems, which provide excellent access to nutrients and water. The season's conditions closely mirror those of celebrated vintages such as 2018 and 2001, promising exceptional wine quality.

Nose - Cherry Chocolate, Blackberry, Rose
Bright aromas of cherry chocolate, blueberry, blackberry, marshmallows and rose, with underlying notes of cedar and toasted oak..

Palate - Plush Red Fruits, Blueberries, Cocoa
On the palate, blueberries and red currants take centre stage, accompanied by a firm tannin structure and a medium-full body.

Finish - Vibrant, Succulent, Toasty Oak
The gentle acidity provides a linear freshness that pairs well with the French oak-derived texture, leading to a long, vibrant finish.

This is a blend if cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot, malbec and merlot. In a good year like this one, it offers some of the best value classy red wine going around. This is as good as any in this line. Plush red fruit of tremendous intensity. A firm core of tannin and oak holds it firm as the succulent fruit washes through. Such energy and vibrancy. - Ray Jordan, 95 Points.