Overview:
The Thorn-Clarke 2021 Sandpiper Merlot is a captivating expression of the Barossa Valley, crafted with meticulous care from vineyards situated across Thorn-Clarke’s own estates. The wine showcases a blend of fruit from the cooler, high-altitude Eden Valley, adding a distinctive freshness to its structure. Produced in a fruit-forward style, the Sandpiper Merlot is aged for 12 months in predominantly French oak, offering a harmonious balance between bold fruit flavours and subtle oak influence. Ready for immediate enjoyment, this Merlot is also capable of developing gracefully over the next five years, offering both immediate gratification and future potential.
Tasting Notes:
A rich and generous Merlot, the Sandpiper 2021 delights with its vibrant Barossa fruit profile. The nose bursts with ripe red berries, plum, and a hint of spice, enhanced by the soft, integrated oak. On the palate, it is mouthfilling and smooth, with layers of dark fruit and a subtle touch of chocolate, creating a rich, full-bodied experience. The finish is long and silky, with soft tannins providing a refined structure that complements the fruit’s lusciousness. A beautifully balanced wine that captures the essence of both the Barossa and Eden Valley regions.