Product Description:
The Moss Wood Pinot Noir 2022 is a beautifully expressive wine from a vintage defined by both challenging conditions and exceptional quality. The year began with a particularly wet season, which led to ideal soil moisture for the vines, setting the stage for a remarkable growing season. The resulting wine is a vibrant and complex Pinot Noir, full of primary red fruit aromas, floral notes, and subtle earthy undertones. With an elegant balance of fruit, tannins, and acidity, this wine displays the perfect structure of a classic Pinot Noir, offering both immediate drinking pleasure and the potential for long-term cellaring. Its velvety texture and fresh fruit profile make it an excellent choice now, while its ageing potential will reward those with the patience to wait. This vintage is a true testament to the Moss Wood estate and the meticulous care taken in every step of its production.
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:
Moss Wood's vineyards, situated in the heart of the Wilyabrup sub-region, are blessed with a maritime climate ideal for grape growing. The area enjoys a consistent sea breeze that moderates the temperature and maintains high humidity, benefiting the vines with a long, slow growing season. The soils, a mixture of sandy loam and gravelly loam over clay subsoils, provide excellent drainage and mineral richness, contributing to the concentration and depth of the wines. The Moss Wood vineyard is dry-grown and unirrigated, ensuring that the vines focus their energy on producing small, concentrated fruit, particularly Cabernet Sauvignon, the estate’s signature variety. The careful balance of tradition and innovation in their vineyard practices, including minimal tillage, mulching, and a focus on soil health, helps maintain the health and longevity of the vines.
The Ribbon Vale Vineyard, planted in 1977, complements Moss Wood's focus on quality, producing exceptional Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Located just a short distance from the original Moss Wood site, it benefits from the same favourable conditions of Wilyabrup's unique soils and climate. Both vineyards are meticulously cared for, ensuring that each vintage reflects the purity and distinctiveness of the Margaret River region. Moss Wood’s approach to vineyard management and their focus on minimal intervention allows the wines to truly express the essence of the land, making them a benchmark for quality and consistency in Margaret River winemaking.
Tasting Notes
NOSE
Red Fruit & Floral
Strawberry, raspberry, and red cherry, with delicate floral notes of rose petal and potpourri. Background elements of cedar, mushroom, forest floor, subtle clove, and charred oak complete the bouquet.
PALATE
Mouth-Filling & Complex
Strawberry, cherry, and plum, complemented by spicy characters of nutmeg, clove, cinnamon, and dried herbs. Creamy, velvety texture, with tannins and acidity providing structure and power throughout the palate.
FINISH
Smooth & Persistent
A long finish with seamless integration of fruit and tannin, leaving a lasting impression of spice and subtle oak.
The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Pinot Noir
Country - Australia
Region - Margaret River, Western Australia
Vintage - 2022
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 14%
Closure - Screw Cap