Dry Grown Merlot 2021

Tasting Notes

Deep, dark plum in colour, this elegant Merlot reveals inviting aromas of ripe plum, mulberry, blackcurrant, leather and subtle spice. The palate is rich and beautifully structured, with concentrated varietal fruit supported by fine-grained tannins and integrated chocolatey oak. Layers of sweet red berries and delicate floral notes add complexity, while the supple, succulent texture leads to a long, smooth and satisfying finish.

Vintage Comments

Following two lower-yielding, dry seasons, the 2021 vintage returned to the fast-paced conditions typical of the Great Southern. Generous spring and summer rainfall, combined with periods of intense heat and drying easterly winds, produced fruit of exceptional concentration and flavour.

The resulting wines are bold and expressive, with excellent structure, depth and ageing potential, making 2021 a standout vintage for red varieties.

Vineyard

Fruit is sourced from our 49-year-old, 12-hectare dry-grown vineyard in Mount Barker, Great Southern. Grown without irrigation on ancient gravelly loam soils, these mature vines naturally produce low yields and small berries with remarkable flavour concentration.

The cool-climate conditions promote slow ripening, preserving freshness while allowing the fruit to develop exceptional depth, balance and varietal character.

Winemaking

The fruit was harvested and fermented on skins for extended extraction, maximising colour, flavour and tannin structure. It was then matured for a minimum of two years in quality French oak barrels, adding subtle notes of vanilla, cedar and spice while allowing the rich varietal fruit to remain the focus.

The result is a beautifully balanced Merlot with generous plum and berry flavours, silky texture, fine tannins and elegant structure, crafted to reflect the character of our dry-grown Mount Barker vineyard.