Masterclass Digest – Moss Wood (5th May 2022)
On Thursday the 5th of May, Liberty Liquors hosted the world famous, and arguably Margert Rivers best wine makers, Moss Wood at our neighbors stunning Moose Cafe in Maude Lane. The Masterclass was presented by the talented wine making brothers, Hugh & Tristan Mugford, sons of long time owners and pioneers of Margaret River Winemaking, Claire & Keith Mugford.
After pleasantries were exchanged, the brothers dove straight into their latest offerings from their Ribbon Vale vineyard. Their 19’ Cab Sauv & Merlot followed by the ’20 Elsa (Sauvignon Blanc). Acquired in 2000, Ribbon Vale vineyard boasts some of Margaret River’s oldest vines (over 40 years!) from some of the most premier Wilyabrup land only 1.6KM away from the Moss Wood vineyard.
“[The 2021 Elsa Is] A splendid rendition of sauvignon blanc offering varietal vibrancy as well as elegant complexity, showing white flesh nectarine, green rockmelon, grapefruit and rich floral aromas on the nose with nuances of cashew and oatmeal. The wonderfully flavoursome palate delivers terrific fruit power backed by textured mouthfeel and bright acidity, finishing persistent and engaging.” Sam Kim, Wine Orbit.
Next, guests were invited to try their world class Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019 vintage from the Moss Wood Single Vineyard. We at Liberty’s are strong believers that the Mugford’s and Moss Wood own and procure some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon grapes in the world. Their 2019 vintage is believed to be one of their best yet, with a recommended time of 25 years cellaring for full maturity with up to 40 years of cellar life.
Moss Wood Cabernet is one of just 22 wines rated ‘Exceptional’ by Langtons Fine Wine based on demand, keeping company with Hill of Grace and Grange. It’s an Australian Grand Cru – In a region that makes so much great Cabernet Moss Wood still stands above. Vintage after vintage it never disappoints. 2019 is an absolute treat! – Fergal Gleeson, The Great Wine Blog
Like most guests, we would have loved to continue drinking the Cab Sauv all night but Tristan & Hugh had one last specialty for the guests to try before finalizing their orders. Ribbon Vales 2018 Botrytis Semillon.
“Delicious, creamy, botrytised semillon with bush honey, dried apricot, liquorice, musk and caramel. Quite Sauternes-like – sweet but certainly not cloying. Perfect with foie gras” Bob Campbell, The Real Review.
Liberty Liquors Owner, Justin’s Notes:
I’d personally like to thank Tristian and Hugh for coming up to host this evening at the tail end of their vintage. I’d like to also extend my thanks to our customers who have supported these evenings with their engaged attendance and generous orders. And Fine Wine wholesalers for assisting on the night and ensuring we have these lovely wines to sell. We hope to see you all at the next master class.