The Exhibitionist Merlot, Barossa Valley 2017

Once in a while you meet someone larger than life itself. Someone who has no fear and is not afraid to let you know just how great they think they are. Someone that, really deep down and against your better judgement, you can’t help but admire. You’re dealing with The Exhibitionist.

Vintage Conditions

Returning to something approaching the historic norm, the 2017 vintage season was defined by a wet late winter followed by good flowering weather and then very mixed conditions throughout the growing period. This resulted in a late harvest . sometimes 4-6 weeks later than the precocious 2015. Quality was generally good though time spent in the vineyard as the difference between making good wine or great wine.

Winemaking

Precise varietal expression and balance are what we seek to achieve and so picking time is of utmost importance. We pick just as flavours are approaching their peak rather than let them get over-ripe. We retain whole berries in the ferment for vibrancy and we press relatively early to avoid astringent tannins.

Tasting

The Exhibitionist is full of rich plum and damson fruit on the nose. Oak used is unobtrusive on the palate which is dominated by rich red berry flavours while also presenting subtle earthy nuances. The wine is elegant and silky with a long finish.

Alcohol:14%

Total  Acidity: 6.22g/l

pH: 3.53

Residual Sugar: <1g/l

SO2: 68mg/l

Fining:None

Vegan: Yes

Vegetarian: Yes