Established by Doctor Bill and Sandra Pannell in 1969, the inaugural release of the Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon was in 1973, where only 250 dozen bottles were produced. The wine has since become highly celebrated, largely due to its reputation for graceful ageing.
The unirrigated, dry-grown 15-hectare vineyard is located on north-east-facing, gently sloping sandy and gravelly red-brown loams over clay. Now owned by winemaker Keith Mugford and his wife Clare, the vineyard’s management is focused on sustainable farming practices and optimisation of fruit quality.
94 Points James Halliday
Bright, deep garnet; the dominant feature is the lavish amount of new oak; argument will rage as to the balance, but the fruit quality is undeniable; multilayered with redcurrant providing highlights to the pure cassis fruit beneath, while cedar and black olive complexity are as yet mere suggestions. The truth lies on the palate where the silkiness of the tannins, and the suppleness of the fruit, promise a wonderful journey ahead; on a final note, the length is quite simply staggering.