Moss Wood 2006 Ribbon Vale Vineyard Merlot

Merlot is not one of my favourite grapes but latest tastings suggest more Australian producers are starting to work out how to nail it. This one, from a leading Margaret River winery, is very stylish, seamless and elegantly structured. It has an aroma of fresh raspberry, mulberry and vanilla, with a smidgen of crushed leaf and perfectly judged oak balance. The palate is medium bodied and beautifully put together, with fruit to the fore. And the fruit lingers well on a clean finish that leaves you wanting more. Here’s a glass of real Moss Wood class at a relatively affordable price.

Now to 10-plus years. 

Food Veal saltimbocca or lucullus; vitello tonnato; creamy white-mould or washed-rind cheeses