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Merlot

Beyond its spiritual home in Bordeaux, Merlot is suited to a variety of climates, estimated to be the third most grown variety globally. Wine makers have done a good job educating the public into believing that Merlot equals "soft" and "velvety" but that need not be the case! In Australia, Merlot is now produced in a range of styles, from 'joosy', plummy reds filled with the variety's trademark mulberry fruit flavour, through to 'old world' expressions where earth & truffle notes are integrated with the fruit. More often, it's partnered with Cabernet.

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- 93
2018 A. Gere Merlot

HUNGARY

$32. 99
Bottle
$395.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now (2023)

ABV: 13%

Closure: Cork

Matured in 70% new and 30% second fill small oak barrels for a period of 16 months. Dark red core with black toned edges and a dark red to brick red hue. Aromas of red currant are overlaid by earth and leather notes with some dried herb and spice also evident. Mid weighted the palate features ripe red currant fruits which carry good flesh over an earth, dried herb and spicy tobacco back drop. Fine polished tannins with a mix of red currant fruit, earth and spice lingering through the elegant finish.
Drink now.
Alc. 13%

Delivery Information
- 98
- 99
- 95
- 98
2020 Chateau Belair-Monange

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$435. 00
Bottle
$5220.00 Dozen

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2020 Belair Monange has also turned out nicely in bottle, wafting from the glass with aromas of rich cherries, plums, sweet spices, rose petals and creamy new oak. Full-bodied, rich and layered, it remains fresh despite its ripe, sun-kissed profile, and its generous payload of tannin helps to integrate its rather lofty level of alcohol. This is a success in its demonstrative, modern style. Drink 2025 - 2045.
95 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 07, 2023)
The 2020 Bélair-Monange is tremendous. What a wine. It is easily the best effort since the Mouiex family bought the property. Rich, ample and dramatic, Bélair-Monange saturates the palate with waves of inky dark red fruit. Sweet floral, espresso and spice notes appear later, adding shades of nuance. Clean mineral notes extend the finish effortlessly. A wine of exotic beauty and allure, Bélair-Monange is a real stunner in 2020. Drink 2028-2060.
98 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Intense aromas of wet earth, limestone cellars and dark fruits such as currants and blackberries. Then turns to flowers. Black truffles, too. Licorice. Gravel. Full-bodied with a solid palate of tannins that melt into the wine. It’s sleek and muscular with fantastic length and presence. Reminds me of great old Belairs from the 1950s. Cool wine. 98% merlot and 2% cabernet franc. Give it six to eight years of time. Best after 2028.
99 points
James Suckling
The Grand Vin 2020 Château Belair-Monange is also 98% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc that's a blend of the upper limestone plateau and the more clay heavy soils on the hillside. Very much in the tight, structured style of the vintage, its dense purple hue is followed by a great nose of ripe black cherries, black raspberries, dried flowers, loamy earth, and camphor, with a beautiful sense of minerality. Opening up with time in the glass, it's full-bodied, has a deep, layered mouthfeel, gorgeous overall balance, and a great finish. It offers pleasure today but will benefit from 7-8 years of bottle age and will be a 30+ year wine. Drink 2030 - 2050.
98 points
Jeb Dunnuck
The combination of incredible purity in the fruit, silky textures, a complex aromatic profile sporting truffles, flowers, licorice, plums, cherries, and cocoa, and a finish that is all about its silky, cashmere texture is what we call a hit! In every sense of the word, this is a magical wine that is rich, full-bodied, sensuous, and sexy, with a finish that lingers, expands, and inspires you to take another sip to experience it all over again. Drink from 2025-2055.
97 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

Delivery Information
- 97
- Nick's Import
2022 Chateau Croix de Labrie Pre-Arrival Offer

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
An incredible young wine that shows fantastic chalk and stone character on both the nose and palate. It’s full but super racy and intense, with a freshness and dryness that is very unique. Oyster shell and iodine character at the end. Salt and white pepper in the finish. From biodynamically grown grapes. From organically grown grapes.
97-98 points
James Suckling
Inky in color, the wine exudes flowers, blackberries, boysenberries, mint, smoke, licorice, and black cherries with touches of chocolate. Here you find a blend of concentration, opulence, freshness, and silkiness. The wine is lush, and deep, with layers of ripe, sweet, black cherries, salty plums, peppery spices, and licorice. The wine is produced and bottled with extremely low levels of sulfur. You can enjoy this young, or age it for more complexity, The wine blends 84% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 6% Cabernet Franc. This is the first vintage with this much Cabernet in the blend. 14.5% ABV. 3.4 pH. The yields were 35 hectoliters per hectare. Drink from 2026-2050.
95-97 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider
Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
6. Errors and omissions excepted.
7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

Delivery Information
- 93
- 93
- 93
- 92
- Nick's Import
2022 Chateau Franc Mayne Pre-Arrival Offer

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$76. 99
Bottle
$923.88 Dozen

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Superb as the 2020 was, the 2022 Franc-Mayne appears to represent still another step up in quality for this seven-hectare clay-limestone terroir. Offering up aromas of dark berries, plums, raw cocoa, violets and bay leaf, it's medium to full-bodied, deep and fleshy, with a pure and vibrant core of fruit, supple tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish. The label marks this estate's first year of organic certification.
93-95 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Apr 2023)
The 2022 Franc Mayne (100% Merlot) is superb. Dense and ripe, the 2022 impresses with its energy and overall tension. I especially admire the energy here. Dark fruit gravel cedar and tobacco, with blood orange and rose petal accents. This could turn out to be special. Drink 2028/-2042.
93-95 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
A fresh and bright pure merlot with velvety tannins. Always in place. Some salt and chalk, too. Medium to full body. Made from organically grown grapes.
93-94 points
James Suckling
Beautiful aromatics of red, blue, and black fruits, as well as tobacco and leafy herbs, emerge from the 2022 Château Franc Mayne, a youthful, unevolved, yet pure, concentrated 100% Merlot barrel sample. The tannins here are ripe and nicely integrated, and it has plenty of mid-palate depth as well as outstanding length, all pointing to this being a brilliant wine in the vintage. Tasted twice.
92-94 points
Jeb Dunnuck
The wine is loaded with lusciously-textured, black cherries, licorice, cocoa, and espresso beans. The wine is rich, supple, long, and fresh with a depth of flavor, freshness, lift and elegance and a salty mineral essence in the finish. The wine sports a new, updated label. The wine was made from 100% Merlot. Drink from 2026-2045.
94-96 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider
Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
3. Payment is due at the time of ordering to secure stocks.
4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2025.
5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
6. Errors and omissions excepted.
7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.

Delivery Information
- 93
2019 Chateau Puynard Sans Soufre

Cotes de Blaye, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$37. 99
Bottle
$455.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2021-2024)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Diam Cork

A 100% Merlot made Sulphur free with no oak. Dense black dark red colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and dark raspberry infused with graphite are trailed by black olive and earthy leather notes. Mid weighted, generous blackcurrant and black raspberry fruits adorn the palate underscored by graphite like characters, dusty earth and spice. Tightens up on the finish with firmish tannins and bright youthful acidity. Concludes tense yet juicy.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 92
2018 Domaine des Marechaux Bordeaux Superieur

Bordeaux, FRANCE

$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2027-2028)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

100% Merlot. Dense midnight black dark red core with a deep dark red black hue. Nosing offers up aromas of blackcurrant and liquorice which are complimented by scorched earth, black olive and spicy leather. Medium bodied the palate is generously endowed with blackcurrant and liquorice fruit which overlays a back drop of cigar box, scorched earth and spicy black olive characters. Firm, slightly grippy tannins with a ripe spicy mid length finish that has a lingering cigar box element to it.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 89
2017 Kooyonga Creek Merlot

North East Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2021-2023)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Deep dark red black colour with a dark to brick red hue. Top notes of mulberry and rhubarb meld into earthy tobacco, stalky cedar and spice notes. Medium bodied, the mulberry and rhubarb fruits show a fleshy generosity with cedary tobacco, earth and spicy dried herb characters on the back half. Dryish finish with grainy tannins, the aftertaste picking up some bitter stalk like elements.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 97
- 97
- 97
2019 Le Macchiole Messorio

Tuscany, ITALY

$699. 00
Bottle
$8388.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The stunning Le Macchiole 2019 Messorio is all Merlot from a special 2.5-hectare plot with a classic mix of Bolgheri soils featuring clay, silt, sandstone and limestone. The wine ferments in concrete and finishes in new barrique for 18 months. I spoke with proprietor Cinzia Merli about Merlot, and she concedes that this early-ripening grape suffers the most because of climate change. However, the winemaking team works extra hard for balance and elegance notwithstanding. This beautiful wine releases perfumes of cherry, blue flower, iris root, crushed stone and slate. Well-balanced oak tones add power and texture to the full-bodied close. 11,000 bottles were released. Drink 2025 - 2048.
97+ points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Jul 30, 2022)
The 2019 Messorio marries the natural opulence of Merlot on the Tuscan Coast with a feeling of finesse I don’t think I have ever seen here before. There is plenty of depth and resonance, but none of the heaviness that was so in vogue for many years. Dark cherry, plum, spice, mocha and lifted floral notes build into the racy, exotic finish. Drink 2027-2039.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
The plums and hazelnuts come out clearly on the nose with some tar and black coffee undertones. It's full-bodied with ripe berry and cappuccino flavors. Chewy yet fine tannins. Merlot. Try after 2028.
97 points
James Suckling

Delivery Information
- 95
- 97
- 95
2017 Le Macchiole Messorio

Tuscany, ITALY

$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 Dozen

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Messorio is a wine that beautifully reflects the characteristics of the vintage and is a very accurate measuring stick of how any single vintage will eventually perform both in terms of near-term accessibility and long-term cellar aging. That said, the Le Macchiole 2017 Messorio plays its strongest cards in terms of mouthfeel and texture, revealing a robust structure and firmly integrated tannins that come from both the richly concentrated fruit and the careful use of oak. The wine shows a heavy center of gravity and a solid base of dark fruit that is enhanced by caramel, brown sugar, spice and creamy blackberry preserves. It does offer immediate appeal, but I'd wait a few more years to give this 2017 Messorio more time to flesh out and evolve. Drink 2022 - 2040.
95 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (Oct 2020)

Other Reviews....
The 2017 Messorio (100% Merlot) is classy and polished to the core. It is also incredibly young and not at all forthcoming. Messorio is a wine that needs a surprising amount of time in bottle to truly shine. I expect that will be the case here as well. Today, the 2017 is all about fruit and density. Time in the cellar should allow for its aromatics to emerge more fully. Overall, though, this is a fairly restrained style, in keeping with the showing of 2017 Bolgheri reds more broadly. All the elements come together so gracefully in this striking wine. Production is down around 20%. Drink 2025 - 2037.
95+ points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

This wine shows beautiful clarity and class on the nose with roses, tar, currants, green and black olives and plums. It’s exceptionally fine-tannined with such polish and finesse. So sophisticated and intense for this vintage. Long, chewy finish, yet this is mouth-filling and caressing. Pure merlot. Try after 2024.
97 points
jamessuckling.com

Delivery Information
- 97
- 98
2013 Le Macchiole Messorio

Tuscany, ITALY

$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Other reviews……
The 2013 Messorio is a truly divine creation that puts Merlot on a well-deserved pedestal. This is a complete wine that accurately doses out its intensity and persistence with stopwatch precision. Dark fruit, blackberry, spice, leather, tar and tobacco are folded together into a homogeneous whole. The wine is supported by finely integrated tannins with lovely dark fruit flavors and beautifully plush textural richness. Thanks to the vintage warmth, the 2013 vintage is similar to 2011. But this current release presents a more delineated sense of freshness that holds it firmly stitched together. The finish is succulent and beautifully layered. Some 10,500 bottles were produced. This is a stunning wine that will not fade for decades to come. Drink: 2018-2040
98 Points
Monica Larner – Robert Parker’s The Wine Advocate

The 2013 Messorio is the highlight in this range of new releases from La Macchiole. Ample and flamboyant on the palate, the 2013 exudes depth. The 2013 is naturally quite primary at this stage, but it will be magnificent with a few years in bottle. Messorio has a way of becoming exotic and visceral over time. Today, the 2013 is at the very early stages of that journey. Drink 2020-2033.
97 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Delivery Information
- 94
2020 Leconfield Coonawarra Merlot

Coonawarra, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$26. 99
Bottle
$323.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2022-2028)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Sailing out of the glass are aromas of ripe red currant and mulberry which are trailed by some cedary tobacco, earth and bay leaf notes. Medium bodied and showing good refinement the palate is generously endowed with ripe red currant and mulberry fruits which are underscored by vanillin cedar, spicy tobacco and delicate bay leaf infusions. Well integrated fine grained tannins. The juicy like red fruited finish showing good length.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 91
- Reduced
2021 Les Peyrautins Merlot - Last Stocks

Pays d'Oc, FRANCE

Reduced from $16.99
$15. 99
Bottle
$191.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2023-2026)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Deep black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of ripe mulberry, dark currant and tobacco mix with dusty vanillin cedar and spice notes. Medium bodied, the amply fleshed palate is generously endowed with dark cherry and blackcurrant fruit which melds into a dried herb, scorched earth and spicy tobacco back drop. Fine grained tannins with a ripe mid length conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 94
2018 Levrier Cavall Merlot

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$69. 99
Bottle
$839.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2023-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Pronounced dark plum, blackcurrant and liquorice aromas meld into dark chocolate, vanillin cedar and spicy earth notes. Rich and plump the full bodied palate is flush with ripe blackcurrant and dark plum fruits which overlay liquorice, vanillin cedar, earth and spicy dried herb characters. Polished tannins with a long opulently textured finish.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 94
2015 Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Vineyard Merlot

Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

$59. 99
Bottle
$719.88 Dozen

Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2024-2026)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Opaque dark red black colour with a bright dark red hue. Nosing reveals a mix of red currant and mulberry scents which sit over some earthy tobacco, vanillin cedar and spicy dried herb notes. Very elegant and refined the palate has an underlying earthiness to the mulberry and red currant fruits. Spicy vanillin cedar and light tobacco elements are also evident. Finishes dry with finely structured, slightly gravelly tannins. Aftertaste of spicy mulberries, red currant, subtle earth, vanillin cedar and traces of dried herbs.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 93
2021 Penny’s Hill Malpas Road Merlot

McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2026-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Aged in barrel for 16 months. Dense midnight black in colour with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and ripe mulberry show good elevation out of the glass followed by some scorched earth, cedary tobacco and spice notes. Rich and robust in the mouth the full bodied palate is awash with blackcurrant and mulberry fruits which are underscored by a firm tannin structure. Earthy black olive, vanillin cedar and spice characters linger. Chewy with a ripe, muscular conclusion.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 93
2022 Pertaringa Stage Left Merlot

McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in seasoned French oak for 12 months. Deep midnight black core with a dark red hue. Attractive ripe mulberry and red currant aromas meld into tobacco, bay leaf, earth and spicy cedar notes. Mid weighted and refined in its feel, spicy ripe mulberry and red currant fruits carry good flesh over a back drop of dusty cedar, tobacco and bay leaf characters. Well integrated fine grained tannin structure with an elegant red fruited conclusion that’s medium to long.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews….
I loved the 2021 version of this wine, so was keen to see if this latest incarnation could match it. It does that and more. Named ‘Stage Left’, as Merlot is seen as a variety which has never enjoyed centre stage in the region, it always reminds me of the old Shakespearean stage direction. And what this wine teaches us is that Merlot perhaps deserves a bigger role in the region. Vibrant garnet, the aroma weaves through plums, raisin cake, chocolate, mocha and plum pudding. Delicious, a cracking Merlot with soft tannins and lots of them. Really good length here and lots to like. This can be enjoyed over the next six to eight years. Drink 2023-2031.
93 Points
Ken Gargett – WinePilot.com

Delivery Information
- 99
- 100
- 100
- 100
- Nick's Import
1998 Petrus

Pomerol, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$11999. 00
Bottle
$143988.00 Dozen

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The greatest wine produced at this estate since the formidable duo of 1989 and 1990 is the 1998 Pétrus, a magical bottle that is a lot more complex and expressive today than was the case only a handful of years ago. Bursting with aromas of dark berries, pencil shavings, violets, licorice and black truffle, it's full-bodied, rich and seamless, with incredible depth at the core, beautifully refined tannins and a long, resonant finish. Even though this is probably the richest, most textural wine of the vintage, the 1998 isn't quite as broad and concentrated as the 1989, but if anything, it's even more precise and delineated. Drink 2020 - 2060.
100 points
William Kelley - Wine Advocate (Dec 22, 2023)
The 1998 Petrus never fails to deliver. This is a fabulous example that confirms it is a true tour de force. It has a compelling bouquet with mineral-rich black and red fruit with unerring purity. In this bottle, I notice a hint of hickory not observed previously. The palate is medium-bodied with silky smooth tannins, perfect acidity and a sense of tension that counterbalances the sheer power and ambition of this, the best Bordeaux of the vintage bar none. I was not quite moved to give this a perfect three-figure score, but it flirts with perfection. Tasted at the Petrus dinner at Hide restaurant in London and at Epure restaurant in Hong Kong. Drink 2020-2060.
99 points
Neal Martin - Vinous (Dec 2019)
The 1998 Petrus goes from strength to strength as it ages. It's a perfect wine and the wine of the vintage with Le Pin and Cheval Blanc. I was lucky enough to drink some over the weekend when a friend brought a bottle to dinner. It was stunning. It's so deep and characterful yet refined and subtle. It showed aromas of wet earth, mushrooms and dark fruits. Dry black olives came out as well. Full body, firm tannins and bright acidity. Very fresh and just opening up now. Walnut and chocolate character. So youthful. Decant two or three hours before serving.
100 points
James Suckling (June 2016)
Richly-scented like you wouldn't believe, earthy truffle, undergrowth, black olive and rosemary fill the glass as your nose hovers over it, and don't let up right through the palate, providing waves of first aroma then flavour. At 22 years old this provides apt evidence of why Petrus 1998 is a legend of 20th century wine. The vintage plays to all of Petrus' strengths; a classic Merlot year that here combines velvety soft-edged tannins that caress and cushion the abundant black cherry, blackberry and bilberry fruit. Traces of campfire, mocha and liquorice are shot through every mouthful, and this is just so good. Jean-Claude Berrouet was at the helm at this point, expertly conducting the many strands of the wine. Harvest September 21, 22 and 23. A small yield meant just 2,400 cases compared to the usual 4,000. 50% new oak. Drink 2020 - 2032.
100 points
Jane Anson - Decanter (Sept 2020)
It is out of my price range, but if you have the coin or friends with the bank, if you are seeking a Petrus with some age that is really hitting all the right notes, 1998 is the wine to buy. The wine is loaded from start to finish with chocolate-coated cherries, truffles, flowers, plums, smoke, touches of blue fruits, and a mild touch of menthol. Full-bodied, rich, opulent, silky, and fresh, the wine is polished, refined, intense, and palate-coating with purity and length. Drink from 2023-2050.
99 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider (Sept 2023)

Delivery Information
- 88
- Biodynamic
- Organic
2020 Settimo Podre Merlot

Veneto, ITALY

$27. 99
Bottle
$335.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)

ABV: 12%

Closure: Cork

Deep dark red black core with a dark red hue. Lifted stewed plum and spicy tobacco like aromas are followed by earth, vanillin cedar and cinnamon. Soft and fleshy the palate sports dark plum and dried cherry fruits over a spicy cedar and earthy cinnamon back drop. Slightly dryish finish with fine grained tannins and a modest aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12%

Delivery Information
- 94
2021 Smith & Hooper Merlot

Wrattonbully, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 6 Years (2024-2030)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

The Wrattonbully terroir is blessed with a soil profile of Terra Rossa over limestone which produces wines with great fruit depth yet also elegance.
Dense black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Lifted aromas of blackcurrant and mulberry infused with black olive and tobacco are trailed by dusty cedar and hints of bay leaf. Rich fleshy textured blackcurrant and mulberry fruits are delivered with terrific concentration over a back drop of vanillin cedar, tobacco, earthy black olives and bay leaf. Fine grained tannins with a long and juicy yet finessed finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 93
2018 Tarrawarra Estate K Block Merlot

Yarra Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2024-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Nosing offers up intense ripe blackcurrant top notes which are followed by some tobacco, mulberry, earthy cedar, dried herbs and spice. The generously fruited, mid weighted palate features rich blackcurrant fruit over mulberry, earth, vanillin cedar, tobacco and dried herb characters. Sturdy fine grained tannin structure with a ripe, slightly chewy medium length conclusion.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 100
- 98
- 96
2016 Tenuta di Trinoro Rosso Toscana

Toscana, ITALY

$650. 00
Bottle
$7800.00 Dozen

ABV: 15.5%

Closure: Cork

Owner and winemaker Andrea Franchetti acquired the property in the 1980s and in the beginning of the 1990s started planting his first vines. The most important lesson he gleaned from a stint in Bordeaux was the crucial role played by terroir. He saw, in the rough woodland that would become Trinoro, clay-limestone and gravel soils reminiscent of those in Saint-Émilion. Only select parcels were suitable for vine-growing, amid a sea of blue clay, and those he cleared by hand and planted in the style of the Bordelais: high-density, meter-by-meter plantings, with cuttings brought over from some of the region’s great estates. The flagship wine from Tenuta di Trinoro is 48% Cabernet Franc and 52% Merlot, fermented in steel followed by eight months in new barrique and 11 months in cement.
Other Reviews....
The 2016 Trinoro is one of the most extraordinary wines I have ever tasted from Trinoro and proprietor Andrea Franchetti. Deep and yet also silky, with exceptionally refined tannins and exquisite balance, the 2016 has so much to recommend it. Dark raspberry jam, white chocolate, mint and rose petal notes are all finely knit in this sublime, exquisitely beautiful wine. The finish alone boasts mind-bending intensity and persistence.
100 points
Vinous
The 2016 Tenuta di Trinoro is a truly gorgeous creation. The flagship wine from Tenuta di Trinoro is 48% Cabernet Franc and 52% Merlot (fermented in steel like the other top-shelf wines from this estate, followed by eight months in new barrique and 11 months in cement). The alcohol here clocks in at 15.5%, and you do feel it. This powerful Tuscan blend offers nice, ripe intensity and bold movements. It is rich and beautiful, layering out tranches of fruit, cinnamon and spice in perfect harmony. It is a full-bodied wine with some sweet cinnamon spice on the close. Some 6,000 bottles were made. Drink 2020 - 2040.
98 points
Monica Larner - Wine Advocate (June 2019)
Pure, ripe flavors of plum, blackberry and fruitcake are wrapped in toasty oak. This is dense, picking up earth and tobacco notes as the spice elements echo on the firm finish. The lasting impression is of saturated fruit. Everything is in proportion for a long life ahead. Best from 2022 through 2035.
96 points
Wine Spectator

Delivery Information
- 89
2019 Ventisquero Reserva Merlot

Valle de Maipo, CHILE

$16. 99
Bottle
$203.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2023-2025)

ABV: 13%

Closure: Stelvin

Deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Spicy mulberry scents intermix with tobacco, earth and capsicum notes. The mid weighted palate displays ripe red currant and mulberry fruits over a spicy back drop of tobacco, earth and subtle capsicum. Dryish finish with dusty tannins and a savoury aftertaste that shows lots of spice.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13%

Delivery Information
- 87
2014 Beechworth Wine Estates Reserve Merlot

Beechworth, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$23. 99
Bottle
$287.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2019-2020)

ABV: 13.6%

Closure: Stelvin

Opaque black crimson red colour with a dark crimson red hue. The nose reveals aromas of blackcurrant intermeshed with black olives followed by some cedary tobacco characters, light earth and spice. Light to medium weight the palate has a relatively tight mouthfeel with flavours of blackcurrant laced with black olives over some earthy cedar and spice. Very dry finish with slightly chalky tannins. Modest aftertaste of black olives, cedar, earth and spice.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc 13.6%

Delivery Information
2015 Blue Poles Allouran

Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

$29. 99
Bottle
$359.88 Dozen

ABV: 13.2%

Closure: Screw Cap

Other Reviews…
From relative obscurity some years back, to one of the more keenly anticipated releases, at least with TWF subscribers. Fair to say, they know their Claret from their Beaujolais.

Blackcurrant, plum, menthol, perfume and lift, perhaps some stewed fruit, spicy biscuity oak. Medium bodied, deep plummy fruit, tobacco, plump tannin, juicy acidity, and fine pencil tannin and earthy flavours on the finish, perhaps some raspberry. Texture and drinkability is a highlight here. Drink by 2025
93 points
Gary Walsh - The Wine Front (March 2018)

Delivery Information
- 94
2016 Blue Poles Reserve Merlot

Margaret River, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA

$39. 99
Bottle
$479.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: 5 - 6 Years (2024-2025)

ABV: 13.8%

Closure: Stelvin

Opaque dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Elevated aromatics of red to blackcurrant and mulberry infused with bay leaf overlay subtle cedary tobacco characters and spice. Very elegant and refined in its feel the palate has good underlying structure with flavours of red currants and mulberries sitting over a back drop of vanillin cedar, light tobacco and spicy bay leaf. Dryish finish with finely grained yet deceptively sturdy tannins. Finishes medium to long with plenty of finesse.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.8%

Delivery Information
- 90
2017 Brash Higgins MRLO Merlot

McLaren Vale, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$39. 99
Bottle
$479.88 Dozen

Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2023-2024)

ABV: 13.8%

Closure: Stelvin

Aged for 7 months in Amphora with 10% Nero d’Avola included. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Fresh plum and mulberry fruits are followed by some stalky notes, fresh herbs and spicy earthy barnyard like notes. Mid weight and fleshy on entry, mulberry and fresh dark cherry flavours are baked by bright acidity with some earthy incense, fresh herb and subtle spicy barnyard nuances sitting underneath. Fine grained tannins and a medium length aftertaste.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 13.8%

Other Reviews….
Merlot for Brad Hickey is produced in amphora, “this is to look at merlot, but to think about it without wood”. That statement could go either way…
Sloshy textured, mellow and soft but there’s good chomp of tannin and a really savoury, almost ground nut savouriness running through the wine with added detail from a garrigue like element and a ferrous, powdery finish. Gosh, lots happening here. Lovely texture, appealing, supple and yet fresh. Lots of depth, intensity and drive. It’s a cracker. Drink 2019-2024.
93 points
Mike Bennie – The Wine Front

Delivery Information
- 96
- 96
- 96
2019 Chateau Belair-Monange

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$450. 00
Bottle
$5400.00 Dozen

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2019 Belair Monange comes sashaying out of the glass with a graceful hair-toss of fragrant red roses, cinnamon stick, cardamom and cumin seed notes over a core of Morello cherries, dark chocolate, wild blueberries and blackberry pie plus a touch of pencil shavings. The medium to full-bodied palate is just scrumptious, offering layers of perfumed black fruits and bright floral sparks, framed by exquisitely ripe, satiny tannins and an invigorating line of freshness, finishing on a lingering aniseed note.
96-98 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Jun 2020)
The 2019 Bélair-Monange, currently undergoing extensive renovation, was picked from 19 September to 3 October and matured in 50% new oak. It certainly leans upon red fruit on the nose with vivacious wild strawberry, cranberry and Morello scents, wonderful mineralité emerging with aeration. This really repays patience. Monitoring it over an hour it uncovers more black fruit - keeps you on your toes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine-grain tannins and a sensual silky texture that belies the sheer depth of this Saint-Émilion. It fans out with abandon on the finish - just an outstanding wine that will offer drinkers many years of pleasure.
96-98 points
Neal Martin - Vinous
Tight and minerally with tar, currant, and wet-earth aromas and flavors. Medium-to full-bodied. Some salt and white pepper to the black fruit. Black olives, too.
96-97 points
James Suckling
The 2019 Belair-Monange is beautiful and reminds me slightly of the 2016 with its fresh yet concentrated style. Offering lots of black fruits, scorched earth, truffle, lead pencil, and a liquid rock-like minerality, this full-bodied beauty has a solid spine of acidity, beautiful balance, and enough building tannins to warrant a solid 5-7 years of bottle age.
96-98 points
Jeb Dunnuck
Floral in nature, you also find smoke, incense, red fruits, spice box, rocks, stones and oceanic notes in the perfume. The wine is rich, concentrated, fresh, vibrant and silky. The fruits glide across your palate leaving a trail of sweet cherries, salt and plums that hang with you.
96-98 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

Delivery Information
- 96
- 96
2009 Chateau Clinet

Pomerol, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$450. 00
Bottle
$5400.00 Dozen

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
Clinet has been on a hot streak lately and the 2009 appears to be the greatest wine ever made at the estate, surpassing even the late Jean-Michel Arcaute’s monumental 1989. A blend of 85% Merlot and tiny amounts of Cabernet Franc (12%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (3%), this big Pomerol boasts an opaque, moonless night inky/blue/purple color in addition to a gorgeous perfume of blueberry pie, incense, truffles, black raspberries, licorice and wood smoke. Viscous and multi-dimensional with silky, sweet tannin, massive fruit concentration and full-bodied power, there are nearly 4,000 cases of this thick, juicy, perfect Clinet. It should drink well in 3-5 years and keep for 25-30.
100 Points
Robert Parker - The Wine Advocate (23rd Dec 2011)

Deep garnet colored, the 2009 Clinet is showing quite a lot of evolution on the nose with notes of new leather, fried spices and dried herbs over a core of dried mulberries and prunes with a touch of redcurrant jelly. Full-bodied and decadently fruited with loads of mature, savory layers, it has a chewy texture and finishes on a dried herbs note.
96 Points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - The Wine Advocate

Aromas of dark fruits, hazelnut and dark chocolate, follow through to a full body, with velvety tannins that are polished and refined. Beautiful depth of fruit to this. Best in 2018.
96 Points
jamessuckling.com

Delivery Information
- 96
- 94
- 95
- Nick's Import
2015 Chateau Fonplegade

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$79. 99
Bottle
$959.88 Dozen

Cellar: 6 - 8 Years (2025-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Cork

A blend of 95% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc with maturation taking place in a combination 60% new French oak barrels, 25% one year old French oak barrels and 15% cement eggs.

Impenetrable inky black core with a deep dark red black hue. Pronounced ripe blackcurrant aromas infused with black olives are followed by cigar box, inky earth, dried herb and spice notes. Rich, dense and sturdy in structure the palate is flooded with ripe blackcurrant and liquorice fruit which is supported by a firm tannin framework. Earthy vanillin cedar, black olive, inky leather and spicy tobacco characters form the underbelly. Excellent depth and length with a long tightly knit aftertaste. Requires some patience to fully unfurl and integrate.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
A gorgeous and layered red showcasing blackberry, blueberry and mineral aromas and flavors. It’s full-bodied and polished with impressive tannins. Shows the flamboyance of the estate. Give it time to come around. From organic grapes. Drink in 2022.
95 points
JamesSuckling.com

Even better from bottle than it was from barrel, the 2015 Fonplégade is absolutely gorgeous. Rich and sumptuous, but superbly refined, the 2015 exudes class. The dark cherry, plum, espresso, rose petal and blood orange notes open up effortlessly. Time in the glass brings out the wine's underlying brightness, tension and energy. Everything about the 2015 speaks to balance. This is a superb showing from proprietors Stephen and Denise Adams and their team, which includes both Stéphane Derenoncourt and Michel Rolland. Drink 2023-2035.
94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Almost all Merlot (there's 5% Cabernet Franc) from a terrific site situated between Angelus and Pavie (this is prime Saint-Emilion terroir!), the 2015 Château Fonplegade is a rich, opulent beauty that comes across as amazingly elegant and weightless for a wine of this size. Cassis, toasted spices, dried earth, and lots of floral nuances all emerge from this full-bodied Saint-Emilion that has notable purity and freshness, ripe tannin, and a great finish. It's blockbuster stuff that needs to be snatched up by readers. Give bottles 2-3 years and enjoy over the following 15-20 years. Drink 2020-2040.
94 points
JebDunnuck.com

Delivery Information
- 92
- 90
- 93
- Nick's Import
2020 Chateau Les Gravieres Pre-Arrival Offer

Saint Emilion, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$43. 99
Bottle
$527.88 Dozen

Closure: Cork
Other Reviews....
Made from 100% Merlot, the 2020 Les Gravieres has a deep purple-black color, rolling out of the glass with ready-for-business scents of plum preserves, baked black cherries and blueberry pie, plus hints of violets, clove oil and camphor, with a waft of tree bark. The medium to full-bodied palate delivers velvety tannins and a lively backbone to support the generous black and blue fruits, finishing long and spicy.
93-95 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (May 2021)

The 2020 Les Gravières is a powerful, bold Saint-Émilion loaded with intense mineral and savory notes that play off a core of inky dark fruit. Blueberry jam, gravel, smoke, lavender, licorice and cloves add gravitas. Les Gravières is another impressive wine in the trio of 2020s I tasted from proprietor Denis Barraud. I very much like the vibrancy and tension here. Tasted two times.
92-94 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous

Medium-bodied with chewy tannins and a juicy finish. Blue fruit, bark and walnuts.
90-91 points
James Suckling

Deep, dark garnet with purple edges in color, the seductive wine is pure velvet on the palate. Full-bodied, rich, concentrated and sensuous, the fruit is perfectly ripe, expressing a gorgeous sense of purity on the mid-palate which manages to carry all the way though to the long finish. Clearly, this is the finest vintage of Les Gravieres ever produced! If you can wait 5 years or so before opening a bottle, this will be an even better wine.
94-96 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

Conditions of Pre Arrival Offer:
1. There is no minimum order unless stated.
2. All wines are 750ml unless indicated otherwise.
3. Once received, all orders will be confirmed with suppliers and then an invoice issued - payment will be due on receipt of this invoice.
4. The wines are being collected and shipped in refrigerated containers and are due to arrive in late 2023.
5. Nicks Wine Merchants reserve the right to pass on any changes in Government duties and taxes and delivery charges from the date of order to the date of final delivery of the wine.
6. Errors and omissions excepted.
7. Delivery charges may apply - these can be determined by visiting the Freight Rates page.
Delivery Information
- 94
2012 Chateau Meillac Bordeaux Superieur

Bordeaux Superieur, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2019-2021)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Pro Cork

A blend of 85% Merlot, 12% Cabernet Franc and 3% Cabernet Sauvignon. Very deep dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Lifted blackcurrant aromas are complexed by earthy tobacco, mulberry, spicy cedar and dried herbs. Very elegant with light to medium body weight, the palate has a refined old claret flavour profile of spicy red to black currant and mulberry fruit which morphs into earth, cedary tobacco characters and dried herb elements. Dryish finish with slightly chalky tannins and a medium length aftertaste. Good value if you’re looking to experience aged Bordeaux on a budget.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 99
- 100
- 99
- 100
2018 Chateau Trotanoy

Pomerol, Bordeaux, FRANCE

$799. 00
Bottle
$9588.00 Dozen

ABV: 15%

Closure: Cork

Other Reviews....
The 2018 Trotanoy is composed of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc. Medium to deep garnet-purple in color, it slowly unfurls to reveal a jaw-dropping perfume of Black Forest cake, black raspberries, blackberry pie and kirsch, followed by hints of cast-iron pan, violets, woodsmoke, Chinese five spice and eucalyptus, with a waft of tree bark. The full-bodied palate explodes with exotic spice and mineral fireworks, grounded by a concentrated, black and red berry preserves core and framed by firm, grainy tannins, finishing with epic length and depth. It will need a good five years in bottle to tame some of the youthfully overt, showy fruit and allow the mineral and earth nuances to emerge, then it should easily cellar another 35 years or more. Drink 2025 - 2060.
99 points
Lisa Perrotti-Brown - Wine Advocate (Apr 2021)
The 2018 Trotanoy is a bold, powerful wine. In this vintage, some of the imposing structure that is such a Trotanoy signature has been replaced by super-expressive aromatics and striking detail. Dried herbs, iron, gravel and crushed rose petals all lend gorgeous savory nuance to a core of potent red berry fruit. Trotanoy is a Pomerol for those who can be patient. The 2018, though, is extraordinarily beautiful right out of the gate. Drink 2033 - 2068.
99 points
Antonio Galloni - Vinous
Super nose of dried blueberry, black plum, walnut, myrrh and sandalwood. Lavender, violet, and chocolate, too. Ripe with wood now, but fresh. It’s full-bodied with firm, ultra fine tannins. Lots of dark spice is interlaced with the ripe fruit, giving this complex, perfumed character. Muscular, long and seamless with incredible depth and concentration. Reminds me of the great 2009, but this is better with more structure. Amazing wine. This is 100% merlot. Try from 2027.
100 points
James Suckling
Another heavenly Pomerol in the vintage, the 2018 Château Trotanoy checks in as 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Franc brought up in (I suspect) lots of new French oak (although it's certainly not apparent). Revealing a dense purple hue as well as a smorgasbord-like bouquet of blackcurrants, dried flowers, cured meats, violets, tobacco, and chocolate, it hits the palate with full-bodied richness, a sexy, seductive texture, building yet sweet tannins, and just a rich, concentrated, yet flawless profile on the palate that's already impossible to resist. Nevertheless, a good 7-8 years of bottle age are warranted, and this magical elixir is going to evolve for 40 years or more. Drink 2028 - 2068.
100 points
Jeb Dunnuck
Breathtaking in every sense of the word, this is what great Pomerol is all about. Dark in color, the complex bouquet starts off with flowers, truffle, chocolate, black cherry, incense, smoke, licorice and spice. But the best part of the wine takes place on your palate with its lavish display of velvet drenched fruits. The level of purity, coupled with its opulent, sensual qualities, length and complexity is almost off the charts! The finish easily crosses the 60 second mark! This is a future legend of Bordeaux.
100 points
Jeff Leve - The Wine Cellar Insider

Delivery Information
- 91
2015 Cousino-Macul Antiguas Reserva Merlot

Valle de Maipo, CHILE

$17. 99
Bottle
$215.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Cork

Aged for 10 months in oak barrels. Deep dark red colour with black tinged edges and a dark red hue. Aromas of spicy red to blackcurrants intermix with tobacco, dried herbs and hints of dusty cedar. Medium bodied the palate has savoury red to black currant fruits infused with tobacco and dried herbs. Traces of black olive and spicy cedar mark the dryish finish. Slightly chalky tannins and a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 94
2022 Dandelion Vineyards Damsel of the Barossa Merlot

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2023-2028)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in older French oak barriques for 20 months. Dense inky black in colour with a deep dark red black hue. Pronounced ripe blackcurrant and plum aromas are interwoven with cedary tobacco, dried herb, earth and spicy cedar notes. Rich blackcurrant and plum fruits carry ample weight across the mouth filling palate with some spicy vanillin cedar, earth, dried herbs and subtle tobacco the undercard. Ripe sturdy tannin structure with bright underlying acidity and a long opulently fruited finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 92
2021 Dandelion Vineyards Damsel of the Barossa Merlot

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2022-2027)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Aged in French oak barriques for 12 months. Superb depth of colour featuring a pitch black heart and a very deep dark red black hue. Expressive ripe mulberry, red plum and red currant aromas meld into vanillin cedar, earth and spicy dried herb notes. The ripe mid weighted palate delivers red to black currant and mulberry fruits over vanillin cedar, earthy graphite like characters and spicy dried herbs. Bright youthful acidity with grainy tannins and a refined finish.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 94
2018 Dandelion Vineyards Damsel of the Barossa Merlot

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2020-2024)

ABV: 14.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in older French oak barriques for 10 months. Dense black core with a deep dark red black hue. Blossoming from the glass are ripe blackcurrant and plum aromatics which have a gentle bay leaf overlay. Spicy vanillin cedar, liquorice and light earth notes ensue. Medium to full bodied, rich blackcurrant and plum fruits have a velvety feel with some ripe mulberry, vanillin cedar, dried herb and subtle spicy earth elements in the background. Very smooth tannins concluding long, plush and sumptuous.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Delivery Information
- 94
2021 Elderton Barossa Merlot

Barossa Valley, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$27. 99
Bottle
$335.88 Dozen

Cellar: 4 - 5 Years (2026-2027)

ABV: 14.8%

Closure: Stelvin

Until 1992, Elderton had used its Estate grown Merlot solely as a blending tool with Cabernet. In 1992 the individual parcel of Merlot was so exceptional that the decision was made to make a straight Merlot. The 2021 vintage combines Elderton’s almost 20 year old vines with younger plantings which brings more vibrancy to the blend.
Aged in predominately older French oak puncheons for 14 months. Dense inky black in colour with a deep bright dark purple hue. Youthful freshly crushed blackcurrant and plum aromas intermingle with vanillin cedar, infusions of bay leaf and faint inky earth notes. Rich blackcurrant and dark plum fruits drive the palate carrying a plush feel throughout. Vanillin cedar, earth, tobacco and spicy dried herb characters ensue. Excellent intensity with velvet smooth tannins complimented by fresh energetic acidity. Concludes long, bright and polished.
Cellar 4-5 years.
Alc. 14.8%

Delivery Information
- 92
2016 Feathertop Merlot

Alpine Valley, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$24. 99
Bottle
$299.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of ripe blackcurrant meld into toasty vanillin cedar, dried herb, earth and spicy bay leaf notes. Rich blackcurrant and liquorice fruits fill the mouth showing plenty of body and flesh. Elements of earth, vanillin cedar, dried herbs and traces of spicy leather then move in. Finishes dry and slightly bitter with the tannins having a gentle chalky feel. Good depth and concentration with a medium length aftertaste that sees the earthy leather characters becoming more prominent.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 89
2017 Fratin Brothers Vineyard Merlot

Grampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now (2020)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Totally opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of black cherry and liquorice have a leathery overlay with earth and spice notes also evident. Medium bodied, black cherry fruits are quickly consumed by tertiary characters of leather, earth and spice as it dries out towards the finish. Fine grained tannins with a lingering earthy barnyard like aftertaste.
Drink now.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 90
2015 Fratin Brothers Vineyard Grampians Merlot

Grampians, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$22. 99
Bottle
$275.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2020-2021)

ABV: 13.5%

Closure: Stelvin

Opaque black dark red colour with a dark red hue. Aromas of mulberry laced with fresh herbs are followed by stalky cedar, subtle tobacco leaf and spice. Medium bodied and elegant in its feel the palate has flavours of mulberries, fresh herbs, light tea leaf, cedar and spicy tobacco. Fine grained tannins with an aftertaste of mulberry, cedary tobacco characters, fresh herbs and subtle tea leaf.
Cellar 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Delivery Information
- 92
2018 Gibson Reserve Merlot

Barossa, South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$54. 99
Bottle
$659.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 5 Years (2021-2026)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Totally opaque black dark red colour with a deep dark red hue. Pronounced dark plum, blackcurrant and choc mint scents are interwoven with vanillin cedar, earth and spice. Rich dark plum and blackcurrant fruits decorate the plushly textured palate and are underscored by subtle dried herb, vanillin cedar, light earth and spice elements. Silky smooth tannins concluding with a medium length aftertaste that has a cashmere like softness to it.
Drink over the next 4-5 years.
Alc. 14%

Delivery Information
- 92
- 94
2015 Gibson Reserve Merlot

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$46. 99
Bottle
$563.88 Dozen

Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2021-2022)

ABV: 14.2%

Closure: Stelvin

Opaque black dark red core with a very dark red hue. Ripe dark plum aromatics intermix with hints of liquorice, dark chocolate, spicy vanillin cedar, hints of earthy tobacco and dried herbs. Medium bodied with a sense of elegance to the rich plum, dark chocolate and liquorice fruit, there’s a back drop of earthy vanillin cedar, tobacco and dried herbs. Spicy finish with fine grained velvet like tannins. Plush mouthfeel concluding with a medium length aftertaste.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14.2%

Other Reviews…
A grand merlot in a regional sense, with generous plummy fruit, served by a waft of gentle balancing tannins, dried herb savour, bitter chocolate and high quality cinnamon oak, nestled nicely into the fold. Like a warm leather armchair to which one returns time and time again. Plush and expansive. Drink by 2025.
94 points
Ned Goodwin – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

Delivery Information
- 94
2013 Gibson Reserve Merlot

South Australia, AUSTRALIA

$46. 99
Bottle
$563.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 4 Years (2017-2021)

ABV: 14.2%

Closure: Stelvin

A blend of 79% Barossa Merlot and 21% Adelaide Hills Merlot. Totally opaque black dark red colour with a very dark red hue. Scented aromas of ripe blackcurrants and liquorice overlay vanillin cedar, notions of scorched earth and spice. Rich and plush in its mouthfeel the medium to full bodied palate is decorated with ripe blackcurrant, liquorice and subtle plum flavours followed by spicy vanillin cedar and lightly scorched earth. Slightly dryish, grainy tannins with an aftertaste of blackcurrant, liquorice, vanillin cedar, scorched earth and spice. A big ripe supplely textured Merlot.
Drink over the next 3-4 years.
Alc. 14.2%

Delivery Information
- 86
2013 Gioiello Estate Merlot

Upper Goulburn, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: 2 - 3 Years (2021-2022)

ABV: 13.4%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in French oak barriques for 18 months. Opaque dark red black colour with a dark brick red black tinged hue. Ripe blackcurrant and mulberry aromas intermingle with vanillin cedar, tobacco leaf and spicy dried herb notes. Initial blackcurrant and mulberry fruit fades leaving tobacco leaf, vanillin cedar, spicy black olive and dried herbs which dry out on a modest finish. Sternish tannins provide some grip.
Cellar 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.4%

Delivery Information
- 89
2016 Gioiello Estate Old House Merlot

Upper Goulburn, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$39. 99
Bottle
$479.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)

ABV: 13.4%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in French oak barriques for 18 months. Deep dark red black colour with a dark brick red hue. Aromas of blackcurrant and rhubarb mix with black olive, tobacco leaf, dusty cedar and spice. Mid weighted the palate serves up slightly stewy currant and mulberry fruits over spicy cedar, dried herb and tobacco leaf characters. Sturdy yet fine grained tannins with a slightly dryish aftertaste that has lingering black olive and tobacco leaf characters to it.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 13.4%

Delivery Information
- 89
2018 Gioiello Estate Merlot

Upper Goulburn, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$24. 99
Bottle
$299.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 2 Years (2022-2024)

ABV: 12.9%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in French oak barriques for 18 months. Opaque dark red black colour with a dark red hue. Ripe blackcurrant and dark chocolate aromas show good lift with vanillin cedar, earth and spice notes also evident. Plump and soft, the mid weighted palate displays expressive dark to black currant fruits over chocolatey vanillin cedar, earth and spice. Polished tannins with a lingering chocolatey vanillin oak aftertaste.
Drink over the next 1-2 years.
Alc. 12.9%

Delivery Information
- 94
- 94
2015 Gioiello Estate Old House Merlot

Upper Goulburn, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$39. 99
Bottle
$479.88 Dozen

Minimum 12 bottles

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)

ABV: 13.7%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in French oak barriques for 18 months. Totally opaque midnight black core with a deep dark red hue. Elevated aromatics of blackcurrant tied to black olive, vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and spice notes drift from the glass. Medium to full bodied, generous ripe blackcurrant flavours sit atop spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, black olive, earth and spice elements. Good depth with slightly grainy tannins providing the framework. Dryish finish with a medium to long aftertaste that sees the emergence of some dried herb characters.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 13.7%

Other Reviews….
Hand-picked from the Old House Block, destemmed and crushed into open fermenters, matured in French oak for 18 months. This is what I term real merlot, thanks to its savoury mix of fruits, black olive and dried herbs. The handling of the oak and tannins was exemplary. Drink by 2030.
94 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion

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- 95
- 95
2017 Gioiello Estate Merlot

Upper Goulburn, Victoria, AUSTRALIA

$19. 99
Bottle
$239.88 Dozen

Cellar: Drink now - 3 Years (2020-2023)

ABV: 14%

Closure: Stelvin

Matured in French oak barriques for 18 months, 20% of which were new.
Deep dark red black coloured core with a dark red hue. Attractive scents of blackcurrant and mulberry merge with cedary tobacco, earthy dried herb and spice notes. Medium bodied there’s ample flesh to this very Bordeaux like Merlot. Rich blackcurrant and mulberry fruits oversee a cedary tobacco, earthy black olive and spicy dried herb background. Slightly dryish but very well integrated tannins only serve to enhance the wines polished feel. Excellent depth with plenty of varietal character on the long finish.
Drink over the next 2-3 years.
Alc. 14%
Other Reviews....
Hand-picked, destemmed and crushed into small open fermenters, matured for 18 months in French oak. No frills other than the benefit of the '17 vintage that invests the wine with very good length and a pleasing finish. Drink by 2040.
95 Points
James Halliday's Wine Companion (August 2020)

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Merlot: Like Cabernet but different...

Merlot tends to be naturally lower in tannin and acid than Cabernet, ripening first in the Cabernet family - sometimes up to ten days earlier, but usually one week. That's a big advantage in a cool year, as it provides viticultural insurance to the Cabernet grower. Merlot also likes cool damp soils (not the well drained type that Cabernet demands) and is particularly suited to soils with some clay to retain Summer moisture. Merlot yields slightly higher than Cabernet and is more approachable as a young wine - a big plus for winemakers who want their wine out on the market with instant drinkability. For blenders it's also a boon, traditionally used to fill the "Cabernet doughnut hole" - that is to say, Merlot adds mid palate fruit, filling out the tannic framework of young Cabernet.

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