The 2023 Ribbon Vale Merlot is gorgeous. It is silky, red-fruited and spicy, with chalky tannins and freshness through the finish. It is light and herbal, without any mintiness or green edges, and the length is laden with paprika dolce and redcurrants. There is also a note of sweet pouch tobacco—dry but sweet. I love the tannins here; they are profuse, but they have a chalky endurance about them that extends alongside the fruit through the finish. This gets a big yes from me. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Drink date: 2026 – 2039