Mills Reef Reserve Gimblett Gravels Merlot Malbec Blend 750mL

This fine wine is an appealing blend of the classic Bordeaux varieties, Merlot (61%), Malbec (39%). Grapes were grown in the highly acclaimed Gimblett Gravels wine growing region, and were harvested in optimum condition on late March 2018 at 20 Brix average.

The grapes were gently crushed, cold soaked for five days and fermented in stainless steel tanks, with gentle daily cap management to extract colour, flavour and fine tannin structure.  A post-ferment maceration followed over fourteen days.  The skins were then pressed off and the wine aged for fourteen months in quality oak barrels (80% French, and 20% Hungarian new wood). The wine was racked once during aging and the blend was composed on 9 July 2019.   The wine is un-fined but filtered before being bottled on 24^Th July  2019, under screwcap.

Immediately warm and appetising, this deliciously harmonious blend of two classical Bordeaux varieties showcases boysenberry and blueberry fruits enveloped in soft caramel flavours, complemented with spicy leather and earthy musky violets.  An excellent choice with lamb or pork dishes. Ready for immediate enjoyment or to reward cellaring.

91 pts – Cameron Douglas
4 stars – Yvonne Lorkin
4 stars – Michael Cooper