Alan and Veitch Merlot (2009)

Merlot may not have become the "next big thing" as many industry types predicted some years ago, but there are a few producers who have been able to carve out a solid niche, simply by producing Merlot that rises above the ordinariness that all too often plagues the variety. Robert "Bob" Johnson falls into this category, producing Merlot under two labels, Robert Johnson Vineyards, where he uses fruit from his own tiny vineyard in Eden Valley, and Alan & Veitch, featuring fruit purchased from various vineyards in the Adelaide Hills. He has certainly found a great source for Merlot for this wine, from a warmer part of the hills near Woodside. This wine is seriously good, showing lifted violets, prunes, chocolate and spice. In the mouth it is slick, juicy and layered with the "soft" middle palate Merlot is known for, but certainly not lacking in structure or intensity. If you're a fan of good Merlot, then give this wine a try, I'm sure you'll love it. If you're a bit suspicious of Merlot being a "softy" with few redeeming qualities then you should still give this a try. It might just change your mind.