Squitchy Lane Yarra Valley Merlot 2024

This is a first for the producer – a stand-alone, limited release Merlot. The vines were planted in 1982 with the intention of playing a role in a Cabernet Sauvignon blend, which it does, but in 2024 the fruit was too good to ignore. Still very much early days for this complex youngster, but the partnership of aromatics and plush fruit promises a very bright future. Red plum, blueberry, violet, rose petal and spice aromas – lifted and lively. The palate brings ripe blueberries, red berries, plum, spice and florals to the fore. Background savoury notes are starting to emerge, building as the wine crosses the tongue, in earthy, undergrowth, herbal with background notes of new leather polished oak. Tannins are firm, earthy and chewy. A quality Yarra Valley Merlot that can take medium-term ageing.