2019 Merricks Estate Pinot Noir, Mornington Peninsula

Highly perfumed and highly flavoursome equals highly appealing. Florals with Middle Eastern spices, forest floor and joss sticks with some menthol, too. The mid-weighted palate is sweet from oak and fruit, all cherries and plum compote with lithe, supple tannins and juicy, tangy acidity. A lovely drink.

93 points Jane Faulkner winecompanion.com.au

The Merricks Estate Pinot Noir from the Mornington Peninsula is a standout cool-climate wine that embodies the elegance and complexity for which this region is renowned. Founded in 1978, Merricks Estate is one of the pioneers of the Mornington Peninsula wine scene, known for its dedication to crafting premium wines that express the unique character of the local terroir.

The Mornington Peninsula’s maritime climate, with cooling influences from Port Phillip Bay and Bass Strait, allows Pinot Noir grapes to ripen slowly, developing nuanced flavors and maintaining vibrant acidity. The estate’s vineyards are meticulously managed, with low-yielding vines that produce fruit of exceptional concentration and quality.

The Merricks Estate Pinot Noir is crafted using traditional winemaking techniques, including small-batch fermentation and aging in French oak barrels. This careful approach enhances the wine’s complexity while preserving the delicate fruit profile characteristic of Pinot Noir.

On the nose, this wine reveals aromas of cherry, red currant, and wild strawberry, accented by subtle notes of rose petal, spice, and earthy undertones. The palate is beautifully balanced, with silky tannins and lively acidity supporting flavors of ripe red berries, hints of mushroom, and a touch of oak. The finish is long and elegant, making it a quintessential example of cool-climate Pinot Noir.

Perfect for pairing with roasted duck, salmon, or mushroom risotto, this Pinot Noir is versatile and food-friendly. While enjoyable in its youth, it also has the potential to age gracefully over the next 5-8 years, developing further complexity and refinement.