Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

97 Points Erin Larkin
96 Points Ray Jordan

Established in 1977 by Moss Wood’s neighbour John James, the Ribbon Vale vineyard has been under the control of Moss Wood for over twenty years now. Winemaker and owner Keith Mugford, like many other Margaret River estates, is ecstatic with the quality of the outstanding 2018 vintage, stating that this is ‘probably the best Ribbon Vale Cabernet Sauvignon we have made’.

A blend of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc the wine was matured in French oak, 16% new, for a period of 27 months

“Such a beautifully balanced cabernet. The key to this vineyard has always been tannin management. This is spot-on. Sure, there are tannins, but you want that with cabernet, right? There’s a minerally, slightly ironstone character threading through it with leafy blackcurrant and, slightly, back olive nuances. Dry savoury finish with a touch of bay leaf. Outstanding wine from an outstanding vintage. In fact, might well be the best cabernet yet from this vineyard.” – 96 Points Ray Jordan

“With 2% each of merlot and cabernet franc. 27 months in French oak (16% new). We live in hallowed times: the ’18 cabernets from Margaret River are being released into the wild … there’s never been a better time to be alive. Concentrated, fine, pedigree cabernet with explosive, low-down torque that drags the flavours over the palate into the interminably long finish. Epic. Will live as long as you do. Drink by 2050.” – 97 Points Erin Larkin for James Halliday’s Wine Companion