More Merlot action tonight and this was clearly the pick of the bunch. The other wines on the bench (and left there) were 2007 Dowie Doole (sweet, jammy and shapeless - 85 points at best - $25), 2006 Shottesbrooke (stalks, green coffee bean and berries but freshness and length as compensation. Green but quite drinkable - 87 points - $20), 2007 Ferngrove (rubbery stink, eucalyptus, pepper and berries - light but dilute. 86 points - $19).

A pleasingly rustic mix of earth, cherry and light vanilla cedar oak lead on to a medium bodied palate with berry, earth and tobacco flavours. Good fruit weight and nice chunky tannins offer a juicy easy drinking mouthful with a bit of style and interest. Closes with lightly chalky tannin and good length of flavour. Attractive wine and especially food friendly too.

Rated : 89 Points
Tasted : Jun08
Alcohol : 13.5%
Closure : Screwcap
Drink : 2008 - 2010