Smith & Hooper Reserve Merlot 2019

Smith & Hooper Reserve Merlot is a savoury, supple Merlot from Wrattonbully, released with bottle age.

The Reserve is the top of Smith & Hooper's Merlot range, made from selected fruit grown by the Hill-Smith family in Wrattonbully and matured in French oak. The winery holds it back until it's around five years old, so it arrives drinking well, and the aim is to celebrate Merlot as one of the world's great grapes. Panforte, clove, kirsch and warm summer fruits fill the aromas, and the palate is plush yet structured, with fresh plum, mocha and chocolate. Savoury, supple and long, it has the backbone to keep improving.

Decant for 30 minutes and serve at 16 to 18 degrees. Roast duck, porcini risotto or slow-cooked veal all match well, and the winery suggests it will cellar for over fifteen 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.