The 2009 Chardonnay begins with complex wild, yeasty / savory aromas emitting notes of yeast extract, toasted almonds, baking bread and crushed cashews over-spiced apple slices, white peaches and orange blossom. Full-bodied, concentrated and opulent in the mouth, it has layers of toast, nut and stone fruit flavors with a creamy texture and good backbone of crisp acid to enliven. The finish is long and savory. Delicious now, it will reward cellaring, drinking best 2012 to 2018+.

Established in 1969 by Bill Pannell (who has since moved South to Pemberton to focus on Pinot Noir), Keith Mugford began making wines at Moss Wood in 1979 and together with his wife, Clare, purchased it outright in 1985. The property has over the years proved itself as one of the finest producers in Margaret River. The Mugford’s make a very, very good Chardonnay but it’s the Cabernet Sauvignon that is most outstanding in the best vintages. 2008 was a cracker of a Cabernet vintage for Moss Wood. The Amy’s blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Merlot) is a well-made, expressive taste of this special turf offering incredible value – well worth squirreling a few bottles away.

94+Points