2020 Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Elsa

Since its stylistic shift in 2019, the Elsa has become Moss Wood’s canvas for exploring the more complex and imaginative side of Sauvignon Blanc. The 2020 release continues this trajectory, blended with 10% Semillon for added aromatic nuance and palate depth, and vinified with the same intricate techniques usually reserved for the Sauvignon Blanc component.
The fruit was sorted, pressed, and allowed a gentle natural settle before a cool ferment with multiple yeast strains commenced. Rather than seeking absolute clarity, the juice retained a light haze, bringing subtle caramel notes and textural weight. Fermentation progressed partly in French oak barriques (6% new), building body and finesse without overt oak expression. Secondary fermentation was carefully nurtured to completion, followed by nine months of maturation on lees before blending and bottling in January 2021.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews....
A 90/10% blend of sauvignon blanc and semillon, barrel fermented and matured for 9 months in French barriques (6% new). The tiny percentage of new oak must have been accompanied by 1yo oak for all or most of the time it spent in barrel. The move away from clear juice to slightly cloudy (in 2019) has moved this into big boy's territory, full-bodied if you will, but none the worse for that. Drink 2022-2027.
95 Points
James Halliday - Halliday's Australian Wine Companion

Some of my compatriots in the wine writing game are not the biggest fans of full worked Sauvignon Blanc, but I am not one of them. Actually I think these wines can be some of the best white wines in the world when done right, as can be seen in the best white wines from Bordeaux. The Ribbon Vale Elsa is a relatively new addition to the Moss Wood range – actually this is only the second vintage. The 2020 is mid straw in colour with golden tints. The integration of fruit with oak is good with the pineapple and green herb notes seamlessly sliding together with vanillin oak and a little crushed cashew barrel ferment. There is already good complexity on show which bodes well for bottle aging. There is then a delicious brightness and freshness to the palate, with oak again sitting in the background before a finish of moderate length. Enjoy with lobster topped with a herb butter for optimal drinking pleasure. Drink 2021-2027.
93 Points
Angus Hughson - WinePilot.com