2019 Garagiste Merricks Pinot Noir

Matured for 11 months in French oak hogsheads of which 355 were new. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges showing excellent depth and a dark red hue. The nose opens with spicy graphite like top notes followed by dark cherry, dried meat and forest floor scents. The savoury palate serves up dark cherry and strawberry fruits which morph into forest floor, black olive, smoked meat and spicy cedar characters. Edgy acidity sits underneath along with fine grained tannins. Long spicy dried herb aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
All the Garagiste wines are good. This is a bit better than that.
It’s a standout release. Power, complexity and length. Graphite, black cherry, stewed strawberries and sweet, clovey spice. Woodsmoke. Walnuts. A strong savoury side without it being twiggy or necessarily bitter, though there’s a pleasant suggestion of the latter. It’s the push through the finish that really elevates it. Super. Drink 2021-2027+
95 points
Campbell Mattinson – The Wine Front