Who makes it?

Philip Shaw has a very stylish cellar door on the outskirts of Orange, New South Wales. He has some of the highest vineyards in Australia, despite being so close to Sydney. The Koomooloo vineyards sit around 900m altitude and there Philip Shaw has been one of the winemakers instrumental in successfully put Orange, New South Wales, on the map.

Although now run by the next generation, the range at Philip Shaw is wide and is acclaimed for its consistent quality. This Merlot forms part of the Character Series along with The Architect Chardonnay, The Idiot Shiraz and The Dreamer Viognier. All representing incredible quality for the value in Australia. 

How do they make it?

This Merlot ferments with indigenous yeast and then spends time maturing in mostly older French oak.  

What does it taste like?

There is an almost floral note sitting companionably between the blackberry and plum fruit. The wine takes on a pinch of herbs on the finish with some spiced details. It is fuller and rounder in body with mouth shaping soft tannins.

This is, undoubtedly, a wine to enjoy now although you don’t have to hurry too much to drink it as it will be still good for a few years yet.

What to drink it with?

This is such an easy choice to enjoy with a juicy burger with all the trimmings (even a vegetarian version). Else, some bangers and mash will be just lovely too.

Cheese!

Some mature cheddar please.

Quickie review « it is hard to beat the value offered by this level of Philip Shaw wines and this Merlot is no exception to that rule. Easy to love and easy to drink. »

Country of Origin:  Orange, Australia 
Tasting Date: July 2021 & January 2023
Price:   UK£14 | AU$25 
Drink: now – 5+ years
Needs food: no
Source: tasting

Like the sound of this Merlot you might enjoy the Philip Shaw Edinburgh NV or the Philip Shaw The Dreamer Viognier.

Visit Philip Shaw for more information.