Garagiste Merricks Pinot Noir 2022

Garagiste Merricks Pinot Noir is a north-facing single-site Pinot Noir from 26-year-old vines on the Mornington Peninsula.

Same vines as the Merricks Chardonnay in age, same grey loams and red ferrosols underfoot, but a north-facing aspect that brings more warmth and more power. The 2022 season cut yields by something like 70 per cent, which changed the calculus in the cellar: with fewer parcels to work with, the whole-bunch figure landed at 25 per cent, a long way below the 60 per cent of the previous year. Natural ferment, gentle extraction, nine months in barrel with 25 per cent new oak, and no heavy hand at any stage. Scarcity, in this case, concentrated things.

Violets, red cherry and raspberry on the nose, with a savoury thread and tannins that are fine and persistent. Serve at 15 degrees. It suits roast pork, duck breast or a mushroom and barley risotto, and it will keep improving for a few years.

*Every effort is made to ensure the current vintage is accurate; however, variations can occur. If you are after a specific vintage, please contact us prior to ordering.