Pertaringa Stage Left Merlot 2022
- 93
- $26
- Drink by: 2023-2031
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I loved the 2021 version of this wine, so was keen to see if this latest incarnation could match it. It does that and more. Named ‘Stage Left’, as Merlot is seen as a variety which has never enjoyed centre stage in the region, it always reminds me of the old Shakespearean stage direction. And what this wine teaches us is that Merlot perhaps deserves a bigger role in the region. Vibrant garnet, the aroma weaves through plums, raisin cake, chocolate, mocha and plum pudding. Delicious, a cracking Merlot with soft tannins and lots of them. Really good length here and lots to like. This can be enjoyed over the next six to eight years.
Ken was born and bred in Brisbane, Queensland. He had a non-trendy, perfectly happy childhood, in a family convinced alcohol meant instant condemnation to Hades. But a break fishing on the Great Barrier Reef, and some good wine, started a serious obsession that eventually took over. It did not stop Ken being chastised later for drinking Pol champagne, disgusted he’d drink anything made by a Cambodian dictator. Now, Ken mostly writes on wine, champagne and spirits for various newspapers, magazines and books, but is perhaps best known for his work in The Courier Mail. He also has a little sideline writing on cigars, fishing, travel and food. When not writing, fly-fishing for trout in NZ or bonefish on the flats of Cuba, travelling or smoking cigars, he is no doubt following a variety of sporting teams – the occasionally glorious Queensland Reds rugby, the dysfunctional Washington Redskins, the dodgy Arsenal and especially revels in the world restored to its proper axis with the return of the Ashes to their rightful home.
