Brash Higgins - MRLO Merlot - McLaren Vale, SA - 2017
Varietal: Merlot
Vintage: 2017
Region: McLaren Vale, SA
Colour: Ruby
Nose: Vibrant & sweet fruited - aromas of grapes, oyster shell, earthy clay, black jelly bean, black tea, jerusalem artichoke and orange peel.
Palate: Smooth and sleek. Dark cherries, spiced plum. Glossy acidity from the Nero d’Avola addition and a black olive brininess keeps it refreshing and grippy; finishes with an after breath of dried violets, or some distinctive purple floral notes.
Notes: Only 200 cases made.
This vintage benefitted from the abundant and balanced growing season of 2016. Grapes were fermented in amphora and on ton open fermenters then pressed off post ferment. After settling, the wine was added back to the clay pots for a further 9 months of ageing. A 10% splash of Nero d'Avola added acidity, tanning and a touch of the exotic.
ABV: 13.8%
Size: 750mL