This Margaret River Merlot from the Ribbon Vale Vineyard also enjoys the presence of 7% Cabernet Sauvignon and 7% Cabernet Franc. Maturation was in French oak barriques, 18% new, for twenty-eight months. The colour is a gleaming maroon, while the nose reveals aromas of plum pudding, blackcurrants, plums, cloves, beefstock, dried herbs and chocolate. There is focus and direction here. Quite an elegant style with good length and very fine tannins, it will probably be at its peak in around six to eight years, but will certainly provide pleasure before and after.