2001 Penfolds "Rawson's Retreat" Merlot

[Drew]

A new wine from Penfolds. Clear dark garnet. Typical nose of merlot with mature plum, oak, a bright element and a little heat. Flavors of ripe dark plum, oak, tar and a heap of tannins...the astringent ones. Not a bad wine for $7.99 and I'm interested in how this will age for the short term. 13%Alc/vol.

Drew

[vinman]

Great question Drew, 'cuz our small group purchased the wine three weeks ago, along with the Rawson's Cab/Shiraz and Chardonnay. We agreed that the Merlot needs to be enjoyed now, rather than later and, well was as you put it "not a bad wine wine for $5.99 (our price)". But wait, we did get a bit excited over the Chardonnay, which was relatively ripe, a peachy wine, with fresh flavors of lime/peach and a bit of oak...Same price which will not stay for long. Guess we are looking forward to trying the Thomas Hyland Shiraz and Chardonnay for a few bucks more as they arrive in our city next week!?