2001 COLDSTREAM HILLS VARIETAL MERLOT

Merlot does well at Coldstream Hills and this basic edition is often joined by a Reserve wine when vintage conditions are just right. Current release 2001. This deep-coloured merlot has a smooth nose of plum pud, earth and dark chocolate. It's clean and ripe without the leafiness that's sometimes present. A thread of cedary oak runs through it, and the palate has plump fruit flavour of good depth and persistence. It's a very friendly red to drink right now, and it won't disappoint with a few years in bottle. Serve with venison.  Huon Hooke & Ralph Kyte-Powell, The Penguin Good Australian Wine Guide

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