Australian Merlot used to be somewhat of a joke. Alcoholic plum juice sourced from warm climates with little structure and even less interest. It was, quite simply, what your Mother slugged back at the end of a long day, mainly for the purpose of intoxication. The times, they are a changin’…
Names like Blue Poles, Capital Wines, Leconfield and Stella Bella are making serious, savoury edged Merlot that is often elegant, complex and age-worthy. You can add Tarrawarra to that list. I was quite smitten with the 2008 release of this wine. The 2010 is another step up.
Give it some time in the decanter or the cellar to get the most out of its brambly black and blue fruits, black olive tapenade, herbal nuances and suggestions of bush tomato. Lacey acidity draws the components towards slightly sappy but utterly fulfilling tannins, resulting in a wine of terrific shape and composure. A choc/earth baseline anchors proceedings as red berries scatter across the surface. It’s not smothered in seasoned oak either, allowing the grapes to take centre stage. Medium bodied, refined and handsome. Excellent
Region: Yarra Valley
Alcohol: 14.0%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $35
Tasted: May 2012