Gallagher Wines Merlot 2008

NOTES

Greg and Libby Gallagher established Gallagher Wines in 1993. After doing climatic data searches for about 2 years, looking for the best area to grow Shiraz for a full, multi-layered flavour profile with full soft and generous texture, they choose the Murrumbateman area of the Canberra District. The climate during the critical ripening period is warm to cool, with good sunlight and slow sugar accumulation, encouraging the development of richness and multiplicity of flavour. With such good ripening conditions, many other "Cool Climate" styles were also possible.

Land was sought with attention to other details such as water catchment, cool air drainage, well drained soils, aspect and layout according to prevailing winds. After finding the desired location, the land was purchased and planting commenced in 1995. The first harvest was 1999 and the company has grown more successful year after year, focusing on producing wines with generous flavour and refined texture.

TASTING NOTES

Rich Plum red in colour leads to a nose of cherry and mulberry fruits and a light vanilla note. The palate is very rich and intense with berry and beetroot flavours with rounded tannin structure and persistent flavoured finish. A medium-full bodied wine that will age well and develop more richness and a velvety finish with time. A perfect match with rich Mediterranean dishes and dishes with rich creamy sauces. Enjoy as a young wine but has the potential to age to a richer wine with four to five years in the bottle.