Grant Burge Merlot Hillcot 2009

Winemaker's Notes:

Grant Burge is a fifth-generation Barossa vigneron and winemaker. Throughout his career, Grant has been one of the most respected and innovative forces in the Australian wine industry. The history of the Burge family and their long association with winemaking in the region can be traced back to March 1855, when noted tailor John Burge immigrated to the Barossa from Hillcot, near Pewsey in Wiltshire, England with his wife Eliza and their two sons. Grant Burge Wines was formed in 1988 by Grant and his wife Helen, and is located in the heart of the Barossa Valley on the banks of Jacobs Creek and is still proudly family owned. Continuing the family tradition, Grant and Helen have now brought the sixth generation into the fold. This 2009 Hillcot Merlot is ruby red in colour with red fruits and blackberries, sweet spice and hints of dark chocolate enticing the nose immediately. This wine has great pedigree having been awarded a Silver medal by Internation Wine Challenge (2009) for the 2007 Vintage.The aromas are complimented by a subtle herbal earthiness, more dark berry fruits and sweet raspberries with rich charry oak. The palate is soft and fleshy and loaded with the flavours continuing from the nose. The wine has excellent structure with soft approachable tannins and an elegant lingering finish. This medium bodied wine is ready to enjoy now or over the next five years. It is a terrific match with rack of lamb, grilled vegetables and rosemary potatoes.