2013 Reserve Merriman Merlot - Shaw Vineyard - Canberra Wine Region

HONOURING a Murrumbateman, Canberra District,

pioneer and a great match with duck, veal or pasta dishes.

ONE TO NOTE: SHAW Vineyard Estate at Murrumbateman in the Canberra District has really kicked some goals in its just-ten year existence, and another for its books is a just-released 2013 Reserve Merriman Merlot made from the very best of fruit that was hand-selected from low-yielding vines, and picked in the cool of night.

Graeme Shaw has been producing Estate and Reserve label Merlots for many years – the difference being the extra time the Reserve spends in select French barrels – and has now added the moniker Merriman to his 2013 Reserve Merlot. That's because it's the name he gives to his best red of the year, and honours pioneer George Merriman who produced world-class wool from Murrumbateman land on part of which the cool-climate Shaw vineyard now thrives.

At $60 with lovely varietal plum and black cherry flavours, savoury tannins and a long finish, this is a great drop with duck, veal or pasta dishes, or mild-spiced curries.

wc 9.11.15