In Australia the popularity of varietal Merlot is a relatively recent phenomenon. Merlot in the Adelaide Hills is often low yielding which results in a smooth, full-flavoured wine with dense colour.
The 2006 K1 Merlot displays a lifted bouquet of damsons and black cherry, with savoury notes of toasted cashews and hints of middle eastern spice. These follow onto the palate which is rich, multilayered and mouthfilling. Silky tannins coat the palate enhancing the finish of this wine.
Although this wine is drinking superbly at present, if carefully cellared for the next 5-8 years it will develop complex characters to reward those who wait.
Variety: 100% Merlot.
Region: 100% Adelaide Hills
Harvest: First week of April 2006
Winemaking: Barrel-matured for 18 months, in 80% French barrique
and 20% American hogsheads. 40% new oak, 60% second use.
Alcohol: 14 % alc/vol
Total acidity: 6.28 g/L
pH: 3.45
Residual Sugar: 2 g/L
Total sulphur dioxide: 112 mg/L
