Tasting Note

                 Sydney Time

           Copyright © Ric Einstein 2008

Jeanneret 2005 Hummer Merlot Sept 08

I had never heard of this Merlot so had no idea what to expect and didn't even have any idea of the price until I rang the winery. That's good way to judge a wine as there are no preconceived ideas. The bouquet initially showed a little VA but after some time in the glass that blew off to reveal intense plum, chocolate, a hint of mint and spice. Deep, strong fruit is supported by fresh acid and silky tannins which produces an ample-weight wine with a solid structure and a soft consistency. This struck me as a serious Merlot with an attractive mouth feel. The intense fruit delivers dark plum, rich chocolate, Dutch cocoa, spice and a hint of green herb on the tail. It has loads of flavour and should be hugely popular. Rated as Highly Recommended with *** for value, drink over the next seven years. The wine was matured for two years in new French oak, sells for $40 at cellar door, and is sealed under a glass stopper. Good stuff - a Merlot that's worth drinking.