2025 Garagiste Merricks Rosé, Mornington Peninsula

Barney Flanders grows and makes a mean Pinot Noir, so it’s no surprise he uses this grape to make his slinky and fleshy Mornington rosé. The fruit hails from a south-facing Pinot Noir block in Merricks. It was hand-picked, sorted and whole-bunch pressed on a slow, gentle cycle and then sent to old puncheons to ferment naturally, with no temperature control on full solids. The blend spent seven months on lees before bottling.

Garagiste Merricks Rosé from the Mornington Peninsula is a beautifully lifted, textural, and quietly expressive wine that shows why this tiny producer has such a devoted following. Winemaker Barnaby Flanders works with a light touch, focusing on small parcels from the cool coastal slopes of Merricks, where sea breezes, ancient volcanic soils, and long ripening seasons give fruit with bright acidity and delicate perfume. This rosé has become something of a local favourite for its subtlety and charm.

The fruit is hand picked early in the season to capture freshness, then gently whole bunch pressed to achieve its pale, shimmering colour. Fermentation takes place in a mix of stainless steel and old barrels, adding both purity and a gentle, savoury texture. Time on lees brings extra depth without dulling the lively Mornington acidity.

In the glass it shows a pale salmon hue. The aroma is fragrant and inviting with strawberry, watermelon, rose petal, and a hint of citrus rind drifting over a soft mineral edge. The palate is crisp, silky, and dry, showing red berries, peach skin, and subtle herbs wrapped in a fine chalky texture that leads to a long, refreshing finish. It is the kind of rosé that feels effortless yet quietly sophisticated.

It pairs beautifully with grilled prawns, sashimi, salads with herbs and citrus, or roast chicken. It is equally delicious on its own and best enjoyed young for its brightness and coastal freshness.