2020 K1 Merlot

Adelaide Hills

Story: Open canopies and low yields at our Kuitpo vineyard ensure that our Merlot grapes are matured to optimum ripeness. From 30 year old vines the fruit is destemmed and fermented in small batch open fermenters for 7 days before pressing into French oak hogsheads to mature for 18 months.

Vintage: The 2020 growing season started with mild weather and below average rainfall. Some late spring rain provided a bit of relief from the dry conditions. A heatwave in January was luckily too early in the ripening cycle to cause any damage to the fruit. This was followed by a very mild and dry finish to the vintage, allowing good hang time and flavour development to the smaller than average crop.

Nose: This wine offers classic cool climate Merlot aromas of plum, blackberries, roast peppers and rosemary.

Palate: The palate is structured, elegant and medium-bodied with upfront cherry and briary berries supported by hints of earth and spice. Supple fine tannins from both fruit and oak provide framework to direct the fruit over the palate.

Pairing: Try K1 Merlot with roast pork loin served with braised fennel and crispy potatoes tossed in sage butter.

Oak maturation: 20% new French oak for 18 months.

Cellaring: Drink now or to 2035                         

Winemaker: Shane Harris