2014 Mount Mary Triolet

Mount Mary

Australia / Yarra Valley / Mount Mary

The Triolet, first produced at this vineyard in 1987, was inspired by the whites of Graves, Bordeaux. The vineyard is planted to 65% Sauvignon Blanc, 25% Semillon and 10% Muscadelle. Each variety is picked at optimum ripeness, and is usually fermented separately. The characteristics of optimum ripeness are different for each variety. We pick the Sauvignon Blanc after the strong herbaceous flavours have gone; the Semillon when the acid is not too harsh; and the Muscadelle when the flavour intensity peaks. In the winery we use mostly older barrels for this wine, with the entire production being barrel fermented. We use grape solids to give the wine texture, and lees stirring to add complexity and body. The Triolet is typically aged for 11 months, by which time the overt fruity flavours have diminished, and complex aromas start to develop.
The aromas of the 2014 Triolet seem more dominated by the Semillon rather than the Sauvignon Blanc which is considered more typical of the Triolet on release. There is a customary hint of reduction given by the barrel fermentation and lees stirring, and this is strongly backed by blossom, lemon, grass and herbs. The palate is more citrus-dominated along with some passion fruit pith and nougat/nuttiness adding complexity. The combination of acid and phenolics gives this wine a textural edge that is stylistically very important for this blend. We believe these elements in combination have allowed this wine to develop such a reputation for ageability. - Sam Middleton

July, 2016

James Halliday

Halliday Wine Companion 2017

97 points

A 65/25/10% blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle; hand-picked, destemmed, lightly crushed, different cultured yeast strains for each parcel, 100% barrel-fermented, matured for 11 months in oak on partial solids with some stirring. Without question, the best white Bordeaux blend in Australia, combining richness with finesse and length - and above all else - dazzling complexity.

September, 2016

Campbell Mattinson,

The Wine Front

93+ points

I described last year’s release as “quality with a charming face”. This release is in the same mould. It oozes drinkability and yet it doesn’t leave sophistication behind. It’s textural too: it’s one of those whites that just feels good as it rolls through your mouth. Grapefruit is to the fore, some lemongrass too, a slip of smokiness, minor florals/rosewater, a bit of grip. It’s pristine but not clinical; it’s firm and yet it gives up plenty of flavour. It’s hard not to be both delighted and impressed.

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About Mount Mary

Mount Mary is one of the great small wineries of Australia, established by Dr John Middleton in 1972. Production is tiny. Mount Mary is noted for both the character and high quality of its wines. Since the first vintage in 1976, it has established itself as one of Australia's most highly regarded producers, commanding a mythical status among wine collectors. The vineyard faces due north and captures optimum sunlight during the growing season. The purity of fruit, poise and structure of Quintet, a Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Merlot and Petit Verdot blend, epitomises the estate. It resonates with individuality of place and Dr John’s fastidious respect for the landscape. Mount Mary has continued to take great steps forward while staying true to the vision of Dr John, whose son David oversees the business while grandson Sam Middleton has taken on the winemaking mantle with aplomb.
“It’s axiomatic that generational change can be good or bad, obvious or discreet. The changes at Mount Mary have been unambiguously good, but fittingly discreet.” – James Halliday

About

Sam Middleton is a third generation wine maker from the Mount Mary family. He holds a degree in Agricultural Science from the University of Melbourne as well as a degree in Wine Science from Charles Sturt University. His background includes employment at several significant producers including Coldstream Hills and Dominique Portet. Sam has gained experience in France working a vintage in Burgundy in 2009 and travelling extensively through other wine regions on a number of occasions since. Bordeaux is of special interest to him as a result of its role in Mount Mary's history. Growing up in the Yarra Valley alongside his father and grandfather, grapes and wine have always been a part of life. He has always demonstrated a passion for primary production and has a deep respect for this region and its unique ability to produce world-class wines.