The opposite of thin, reedy and green. The new Villiera Monro Merlot 2020 is triumphantly luxurious and does plush justice to the grape. Fruit was selected from old vine sites and spent 18 months in French oak (65% new). Dried herbs, some bay leaf, mingles with red and black berries, choc-dipped cherries and a hint of kirsch. Layering into this toasty oak amps up the luxury styling with lashings of vanilla and white spices (cardamom, clove). The palate is generous and juicy; loaded with crushed sappy fruit, mulberries, plums, and cherries against a backdrop of smooth tannins. A lithe acidity twirls right through, lifting and refreshing. With time the oak will melt in and promises harmonious evolution over ten years.
(91) ML