2017 Merricks Estate Shiraz, Mornington Peninsula

It’s full of pepper and spice and all things nice. A neat sync of fruit and savouriness, with a strong iodine and ferrous character adding a layer of intrigue. Grainy tannins and refreshing acidity in check across the medium-bodied palate. Enjoyable to the last drop.

95 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

The Merricks Estate Shiraz from the Mornington Peninsula is a distinctive cool-climate expression of this classic variety, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Established in 1978, Merricks Estate is one of the region’s pioneering wineries, known for its commitment to producing high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the Mornington Peninsula.

The region’s maritime climate, characterized by cooling breezes from Port Phillip Bay, moderates temperatures, allowing Shiraz grapes to ripen slowly and develop intense flavors while retaining natural acidity. The vineyards benefit from well-drained soils and careful vine management to produce fruit of exceptional quality.

The Merricks Estate Shiraz undergoes traditional winemaking techniques, including fermentation in open vats and aging in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This approach enhances the wine’s complexity and structure, while allowing the fruit to take center stage.

On the nose, the wine displays aromas of dark berries, plum, and black pepper, intertwined with hints of violet, spice, and subtle oak. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant, offering layers of blackberry, cherry, and a touch of licorice, supported by fine-grained tannins and refreshing acidity. The finish is long and well-balanced, showcasing the wine’s cool-climate origins.

This Shiraz is an excellent pairing for lamb dishes, grilled meats, or hearty vegetable stews. While enjoyable now, it also has the potential to age gracefully over 5-10 years, developing further complexity and depth.