It’s plummy with liquered edges, mint and some chocolate custard oak. Plenty of sweet fruit and a surprising fleshiness. There is a present acidity, but no harsh bite. There's lots of woody, grainy tannin structure that mould into a solid wine with a good flavour.
Past Accolades:
James Halliday: "Medium red-purple; a sturdy, dark-fruited regional blend from within the Adelaide super zone, with more strength and depth than varietal expression."
From the Winery:
Stage Left Merlot This wine is called Stage Left Merlot as the variety has never been centre stage in the vineyard theatre of McLaren Vale. We think that it should be enjoyed for its unique interpretation of this beloved Bordeaux variety.
Summer weather arrived early with consecutive days of around 35 degrees in November, but some rain in December helped brighten up the vines. The fine weather between January and harvest provided perfect conditions for ripening.
Dark juicy plum, blackberry and green leaf characters dominate. Underlined with hints of forest floor, cedar wood and mint.
Brooding, sweet black fruits, light mint and savoury herbaceous notes. Supple with a bold mid-palate and textural soft finish.
Eat it with chargrilled kangaroo paired with charcoaled beets, sweet potato mash and lavender and sage butter.
Cellaring Drink now to 2018
Don't Pay: $28.00
WBW Rating: 93/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: McLaren Vale, SA
Winemaker: Shane Harris
Drink now until: 2023
Alc/Vol: 14 %
