MILL MERLOT

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Growing Season

Fruit for this wine was sourced from some of the oldest vines at Windowrie. Management techniques including hand pruning, shoot thinning and restricted irrigation led to a yield of 2.5t acre. Fortunately this block reached desired maturity levels (13bé) earlier than usual and was harvested on 8th March prior to the late season rain.

Winemaking

This wine was made from Merlot grapes picked at approximately 13º Be. Pumped over twice daily, the fermentation temperature was maintained at 23-25ºC (72-77ºF) to avoid harsh tannins. Having been fermented to approximately 4º Be before being pressed off skins a portion of the wine (80%) underwent oak maturation in 1, 2, 3 year old American Oak to add complexity and structure. The wine was given a light fining, pre clean up. As with the other Mill wines, we aim to produce a fruit-driven wine with subtle oak.

Tasting Notes

The Mill Merlot is an attractive brick red in colour with flowing structure. The wine has aromas of cherry, mulberry/raspberry and earthy characters. Shows beautiful varietal fruits. Best enjoyed with Italian/ Spanish food and on its own. Now to 5 years.

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