2022 Elderton Estate Family Merlot, Barossa Valley

Merlot from the Elderton Nuriootpa estate, aged in seasoned French oak puncheons for 14 months. Plenty of familiar, fleshy varietal fruit tones here, with ripe plummy fruits along with some blueberry and mulberry top notes. Layers of spice, softly spoken oak, fine spice, purple flowers, mocha and earth. A good showing all round with velvety fruit, plenty of spicy nuance, fine, sandy tannins and a plume of plummy goodness on the finish.

93 points Special Value Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

The Ashmead family purchased their first estate vineyard in the middle of Nuriootpa in the late 1970s and since making their first wine from the 1982 vintage, have developed an enviable history of success.

Merlot was first planted in that vineyard in the early 1980s and a Merlot was added to our range in 1992, with the intention to offer a wine that showcased true varietal definition, regional character and a healthy slice of personality of the Elderton team.

Deep crimson Aroma Plums and cloves with a floral touch Palate Juicy red fruits, peppered with spice and a velvety smooth yet structured finish