Mount Langhi Ghiran Cliff Edge Cabernet Merlot 2020

 

Silky happiness in a glass courtesy of Mount Langhi Ghiran's Cliff Edge Cabernet Merlot. From a challenging year with small yields, you'll be happy with the quality in the glass.

Nightfall Lupus Merlot 2019

Coonawarra Merlot courtesy of the upmarket brand Nightfall Wines. This is good gear and adds a little light to a variety that can often be shrouded in grey.

Nightfall Libra The Balance Dry Red 2019

 

Is The Balance a nice way of saying the dregs? We will never know. What I can tell you is that this Cabernet/Cabernet Franc/Merlot blend stacks up and holds its own very well.

Mérite Wines Q Merlot 2020

 

What a difference a clone makes! This is Merlot you want to drink. It's smart gear well worth tracking down. As much as I'd love to say it is named after yours truly, I have nothing to do with the title. Sigh. Named Q after the Q45 clone, it is one that is vastly different to other Merlot clones planted throughout Australia. Sourced for its vibrance and charismatic charm, this is Merlot but not as you know it. 

Tenafeate Creek Wines One Tree Hill Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2021

 

Quite a big and robust Cabernet Merlot blend, it softens with time in the glass. Give it a decant to see it at its best or put it away for a little sleep. All up, roast night is looking tops.

Tenafeate Creek Wines One Tree Hill Merlot 2021

 

Merlot with some expression and presence - yes! This is a fine drink that is sure to please. Fruit depth, length plus a dash of spice ensure things are moving in the right direction.

Pegasus Bay Maestro 2019

 

The Maestro represents the best of the Pegasus Bay Bordeaux fruit. I was privileged to receive a pre-release sample and all I can suggest is that you get in the queue. There is a class about its swagger and I just want more.

Yarra Yering No. 1 2015

 

I was fortunate enough to taste this exquisite release from 2015 when I dropped by the cellar door not too long ago. In a re-release of 2015, only 100 bottles were made available. In short, it's a stunning wine.

The Bone Line Iridium 2018

 

From a small winery in New Zealand's North Canterbury region, The Bone Line is dishing up some very smart wines. This blend is another example of that. Give it some air and it's a dangerous drink. Cool evenings with whispy pink clouds in the sky as the sun sets - the perfect match awaits. 

Jim Brand Domain Cabernets 2019

 

One of the very best red wines to have come across the tasting bench this year, this is all about clever blending, great fruit and engaging aromas. Made from the top 1% of fruit produced, quite simply, it's an absolutely superb blend. Stand and applaud.

Zema Estate Cluny Cabernet Merlot 2018

 

Mr Reliable for $25 RRP but the website has it at $20 - that's a sweet deal. That cheeky mid-weeker is looking pretty good. 

Oxford Landing Merlot 2021

 

Pizza and pasta night on a budget. 

Juniper Cornerstone Karridale Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

 

A keeper that will reward well beyond a decade, this Cabernet blend from Juniper is a worth hanging out for.

Usher Tinkler Rosé 2022

 

With a copper and onion skin appearance, this super tasty dry Rosé from Usher Tinkler is a summer time barbecue dream boat.

Huntington Estate Special Reserve Merlot 2018

 

A good drink for those that aren't chasing anything too complex nor obtrusive. A ho-hum red of sorts.

TarraWarra Estate K Block Merlot 2018

 

One of those wines you can sit on for a while. This is a pleasant and enjoyable Yarra Valley Merlot that will please those looking for a soothing drink.

Simpson Estate Jenny Cabernet Merlot 2017

 

A wine that grows on you, for a label I don't know much about I walk away suitably impressed. Very nicely done here.

Parker Coonawarra Estate Terra Rossa Merlot 2020

 

Coonawarra Merlot. I haven't seen a release of this wine for three years. Give it a good decant and it calms. Some prickly acidity still loiters about though.

De Iuliis Rosé 2021

 

Chill hard and pour large. What an absolute beauty this is! A little crafty online research will help you nab this for $17 which is insane value. Go here. 

Blue Pyrenees Estate 2018

 

Right in the slot of a classic Cabernet Merlot, blackcurrants meet plums framed by savoury delish. Well played here by Blue Pyrenees.