Limestone Coast, Barossa Valley 14.0% Screwcap $13.99 Source: Sample
Apart from an 08 Leconfield, I’ve never been that impressed by any of the straight Merlots I’ve tasted from either the Limestone Coast or the Barossa. This is solid for its price but no more than that.
It smells of sweet, red cherry/berry and bubblegum, mulberry and darker plum, along with a some dying grass over a little ironstone. Soft mouth feel on entry, some spice, decent acidity but the tannin is grainy and woody.
Overall the oak seems raw and whilst it does integrate somewhat with time, it doesn’t offer much in the way of pleasure. The palate is a little skinny too. Savoury black olive tapenade and almond flavours on mid to back palate are a boon.
Winery website- http://www.kingstonestatewines.com/
Know it sounds daft, but had a 96 Petaluma the other day and it was SINGING. Hanging in their (at prime), earthy as hell, chocolatey, cocoa, fine tannins holding it together and plum and sour cherry just sticking around still. Awesome, subtle old wine and proof that Australia can make merlot to age. I've got a sneaking suspicion that there's success to be had if you know what you're doing with Merlot (esp. in the vineyard).
Thanks Cam. I'd completely forgotten about Petaluma's Coonawarra Merlot. Definitely some good vintages made and with enough history to suggest the region can do Merlot (if, as you say, you know hat you're doing). I've had a Katnook that wasn't too shabby either.
Then there's the Irvine Grand Merlot, but that's from the Eden Valley, so I'm going to say it doesn't count