Cult Australian winery Mount Mary has joined the UK importer Pol Roger Portfolio, marking a significant shift in its international distribution strategy. Known for its premium wines from Victoria’s Yarra Valley, Mount Mary will now be represented in the UK market by an importer that specializes in high-end, family-run wine estates. The move comes as the winery steps away from the global distribution network La Place de Bordeaux.

Announced yesterday, the partnership sees Mount Mary become the third Australian producer in Pol Roger Portfolio’s growing range from the region, following the addition of Mulline Vintners and Voyager Estate. Both are respected producers based in Geelong and Margaret River, respectively.

Speaking to db, James Simpson MW, managing director of Pol Roger Portfolio, described the addition as a sign of continued belief in the UK wine trade and a testament to the strength of Australian fine wine. “Mount Mary fits perfectly with our focus on top, family owned and operated producers,” he said, also noting the importance of working with people who are not only excellent winemakers but also “nice people”—a reference to the Middleton family who run the estate.

From La Place to a more focused UK presence

Mount Mary’s decision to step away from La Place de Bordeaux—the French negociant system traditionally used for distributing high-end wines globally—signals a shift toward a more targeted approach. The Middleton family, now in their third generation at the helm of the winery, are particularly interested in strengthening their UK presence in restaurants and hotels. Simpson believes Mount Mary’s elegant, nuanced wines will find a welcome home in the country’s hospitality sector.

Despite limited stock—Mount Mary produces only four wines—the offering is expected to appeal to sommeliers and fine wine retailers alike. Simpson added that while availability may be low, the quality of the wines is exceptional and the pricing remains approachable given the estate’s pedigree.

The Pol Roger team will introduce the full Mount Mary range to UK trade and press at two upcoming tastings: one in London on March 4 and another in Manchester on March 6.

A pioneering estate with deep roots in the Yarra Valley

Founded in 1971 by Dr John and Marli Middleton, Mount Mary was a trailblazer in the Yarra Valley, playing a pivotal role in re-establishing the region’s reputation for fine wine production. The estate, located in Coldstream, now spans 16 hectares with 18 grape varieties under vine.

Today, Mount Mary is managed by siblings Sam and Claire Middleton—Sam oversees winemaking, while Claire leads distribution and sales. Under their stewardship, the estate has made strides in sustainability, reducing chemical herbicide use and planting new vineyard plots to further refine quality.

The winery's reputation was further solidified in 2024 when it was ranked fifth in the prestigious Halliday Wine Companion’s Top 100 Wineries list. This recognition underscores Mount Mary’s position at the forefront of Australian winemaking.

A focused portfolio with four signature wines

Mount Mary is known for its disciplined focus, producing just four wines—all of which reflect the estate’s commitment to elegance and age-worthiness. The flagship wine is Quintet, a Bordeaux-style red blend made from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. It is widely regarded as one of Australia’s most refined and balanced red wines.

Also part of the lineup is a small-production Pinot Noir that has earned a loyal following, alongside two white wines: Triolet, a Bordeaux-inspired blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle, and a classically styled Chardonnay.

These wines will now be distributed in the UK with a focus on independent retailers, top-tier restaurants, and select private clients via longstanding Pol Roger partner Berry Bros. & Rudd.

Expanding a distinguished portfolio

With the addition of Mount Mary, Pol Roger Portfolio continues to build a world-class collection of family-owned estates. The group’s existing roster includes names such as Champagne Pol Roger, Maison Joseph Drouhin, Domaine Vacheron, and Staglin Family Vineyard, among others. The inclusion of Mount Mary strengthens the portfolio’s Australian offering and highlights Pol Roger’s ongoing investment in quality over quantity.

This new partnership offers UK wine professionals and consumers the chance to access one of Australia’s most respected wineries through a trusted importer committed to heritage, craftsmanship, and personal relationships. As Mount Mary begins this new chapter, it’s clear the winery’s legacy will continue to grow on the international stage—one carefully allocated bottle at a time.