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:
Moss Wood, founded in 1969, is one of the pioneering estates of the Margaret River wine region, located in the renowned Wilyabrup sub-region of Western Australia. Clare and Keith Mugford have been the heart of Moss Wood since the 1980s, with Clare overseeing winemaking and Keith tending to the vineyard. Their commitment to exacting viticulture and non-invasive winemaking practices has resulted in a collection of wines consistently recognised for their quality, elegance, and remarkable aging potential. With a focus on producing wines that express the distinct characteristics of their vineyards, Moss Wood has built a reputation for creating world-class wines, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir, all of which showcase incredible depth, complexity, and longevity.
The philosophy at Moss Wood is centered on the belief that wine quality begins in the vineyard. Clare and Keith continuously reassess their viticultural techniques, embracing both current research and innovative practices to refine their approach. From soil conservation to trellising and pruning techniques, the duo’s work in the vineyard is ever-evolving to ensure the best fruit possible. Their philosophy also extends to the cellar, where winemaking is marked by precision and care, with minimal intervention, allowing the natural expression of each vintage to shine. This hands-on, science-driven approach has allowed Moss Wood to remain at the forefront of Australian winemaking, earning the estate its place among the "Exceptional" wineries in Langton's Classification.
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.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - 83% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 6% Malbec, 6% Petit Verdot
Country - Australia
Region - Margaret River, Western Australia
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%