Wheeler Yarra Valley Articulation Cabernet Merlot 2021

‘From 1997 vine plantings, grown on grey clay-loam soils in Yarra Junction. Comprised of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Merlot handpicked in mid-April. Destemmed and naturally fermented whole-berry as separate parcels. Pressed to seasoned French Barriques for 18 months and a further 5 months resting time in tank. bottled February 2023. Unfined/Unfiltered/Vegan.’

While known predominantly as a haven for Pinot Noir, the Yarra Valley is loved by many for its offerings of Cabernet (sometimes with a touch of Merlot, like this wine). The nose presents resonant blackcurrant and raspberry, with some added depth from plum, black cherry, liquorice and tomato leaf, and some tertiary chocolate and earth is also coming through after a few years in bottle. The palate is dark and delicious, with the tannins coming together really well, coating the teeth with their dusty goodness – the mid-palate, however, shows very bright, high-toned fruit after swishing the wine around the mouth. The flavours are deep and long, with everything gelling to make a very tasty wine.

Brendan Black

Wine Critic at Winepilot

Brendan is a Melbourne-based writer, filmmaker, playwright and composer. Since 2013, he has been published in national and regional Australian titles such as Halliday Magazine, Gourmet Traveller Wine, Grapegrower and Winemaker, Gippslandia, Gippsland Lifestyle, Yarra Valley and Ranges and Gippsland Country Life magazines. Brendan was a finalist for 2024 Wine Communicator Awards in the 'Best Published Feature Article or Wine Column' category. He has completed the WSET Level 3 course (gaining a Distinction) and has a passion for small producers of wine, beer and spirits. He is also the co-editor of 'I'm Not a Film Star: David Bowie as Actor' for Bloomsbury Academic.

Author and wine writer