Overview:
The Charles Wiffen Merlot 2016 is a full-bodied and elegantly structured wine, crafted from the estate’s Merlot block, first planted in 1998. The vineyard’s cane-pruning technique ensures the grapes are of the highest quality, with a modest yield of just 6 tonnes per hectare. Hand-harvested and carefully transported in refrigerated containers, the fruit is cold-soaked and fermented with precision. Aged for 10 months in French barriques, 25% of which are new, this Merlot embodies a harmonious balance of fruit richness, oak complexity, and smooth tannins. The result is a wine that offers both depth and elegance, ideal for those seeking a refined red.
Tasting Notes:
On the nose, the Charles Wiffen Merlot 2016 presents an inviting bouquet of ripe cassis, plum, and vanillin, complemented by subtle notes of chocolate and dark berries. The palate is rich and full, where the dark fruit flavours continue to shine through, with an underlying warmth from the oak ageing. Smooth tannins give structure, while the wine’s balanced acidity ensures a fresh, yet soft, finish. The lingering aftertaste leaves a lasting impression of dark fruit and chocolate, making it an exceptional choice for those who appreciate Merlot's depth and complexity.