Robert Mondavi Private Selection Rum Barrel Aged Merlot 2018
- 91
- $25
- Drink by: 2021 - 2024
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From the stellar California-based Robert Mondavi winery comes the curiously labelled vinous offering. Rum Barrel Aged merlot you say? You know what? It works quite nicely thank you very much! There is something that just works here, with the plushness of the merlot meshing seamlessly with the vanilin-edged oak elements that is certainly pleasing to the palate. Sourced from Californian Monterey Coast grapes, the wine boasts a deep red/purple hue and opulent aromas of ripe, juicy plum and berry fruits, studded with Christmas Cake spice, roasting coffee, mocha, some higher toned , red-fruited flashes and a distinct, oak-driven trail of coconut and perhaps something akin to Maple or Golden Syrup. Rich and plushly formed, the aromas transpose neatly over to the palate which is beautifully weighted with a bright line, fine tannin profile and a lingering finish. Not a wine for chin-stroking and contemplation but it’s certainly quite a crowd pleaser.
Dave Brookes is a freelance wine journalist contributing to Australian Gourmet Traveller WINE, Wine Companion and Selector magazines. His work has appeared in The Adelaide Review, Wine Enthusiast, Wine & Spirits and Cuisine magazines and Dave has also worked with Fairfax media, Emirates and Qantas. Originally from North Canterbury, New Zealand, Dave lived in the Barossa for many years before relocating to the north coast of NSW. With 26 years in the wine industry his experience spans retail, wholesale, winery, secondary market and brand management. David was awarded Dux of the prestigious Len Evans Tutorial in 2011 and is a sought-after judge on the Australian and international wine show circuit judging at around 10 major and regional wine shows a year. He is currently panel chair at several influential capital city wine shows in Australia, chairman of the NSW Wine Awards and Margaret River Wine show and Chief Editor of the Wine 100 Challenge in Shanghai and Beijing Fanshang Wine & Food Competition.
