Thorn-Clarke Sandpiper Barossa Merlot 2019 (Australia)

Thorn-Clarke Sandpiper Barossa Merlot 2019 (Australia)French oak Ripe cherry & plum Dark chocolate Silky tannins Our 2019 Sandpiper Merlot is deep red with garnet hues at the edge. It exudes enticing aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and dark chocolate, followed by subtle notes of vanilla and baking spice. On the palate, this wine is full bodied with a plush texture that coats the mouth with flavours of blackberry, raspberry, and black currant. The tannins are silky, providing a smooth and satisfying

• French oak
• Ripe cherry & plum
• Dark chocolate
• Silky tannins

Our 2019 Sandpiper Merlot is deep red with garnet hues at the edge. It exudes enticing aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, and dark chocolate, followed by subtle notes of vanilla and baking spice. On the palate, this wine is full-bodied with a plush texture that coats the mouth with flavours of blackberry, raspberry, and black currant. The tannins are silky, providing a smooth and satisfying finish.

The 2019 growing season had all the hallmarks of a classic vintage. Consistent warm temperatures produced perfect conditions for our red varieties to ripen. This along with good winter rains and a dry harvest period resulted in wines with great depth of varietal flavours, excellent tannin structure and colour along with a long balanced finish. Reds from 2019 will age well due to their intense concentration and power.

The grapes are crushed and de-stemmed into fermenters. Yeast is added immediately once in fermenter and the ferments are pumped over twice daily to maximise colour, tannin and flavour extraction. Cooling is used to ensure ferment temperatures remain in the 22-25 degree Celsius range which will allow the fruit to display maximum fruit expression. Pressing then occurs approximately seven days after crushing and the wine is then put into French oak for maturation for up to 12 months.

The Sandpiper range is named after the migratory bird which visits the Thorn-Clarke vineyards annually from the northern hemisphere - something of a reminder of the tenacity and commitment which is required for long term viticulture.