Angullong’s vineyards are based in the foothills of Mount Canobolas in the Orange region of New South Wales. I think this may be the first Merlot from Angullong I’ve seen.

Angullong, Merlot, Orange, 2018

Plump and plush. Filled with plums and chocolate, some herbal savoury lift, shiny pencilly oak before earthy dried leather and crumpled cigar end. There’s a little prickle of alcohol on the nose, but it doesn’t disrupt the feel. Betwixt and between, the tannins are drying, tight knit and well presented yet the dark fruit feels a muted and the acidity a touch on the high side. There’s plenty of dark chocolatey richness with that herbal edge, but it may take a little while to come together. For now, serve with a hearty beef and mushroom pie. Decent value overall.

RRP: $22
Alc: 13.5% (from winery tech advice, label states 14.5%)
Rating: 17.25/20 (89/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Angullong and Define Wine