Print this Wine         1994 Pikes Reserve Merlot   POLISH HILL RIVER, CLARE VALLEY                 January Release   Merlot       Typically the Merlot fruit from the Pikes vineyard is blended with Cabernet Sauvignon to produce a superb full bodied red wine. In 1994 a small amount of the Merlot was deemed by Neil Pike to be so exquisite that he kept it separate from the main blend and gave it longer maturation in new oak barrels. The result is a rare but wonderful expression of the variety's potential. Deep, dark ruby, almost black in the center, this wine is extremely concentrated. Judging from the purple tinges on the rim it is still very youthful despite being three years of age. There are a multitude of aromas present with this fine drop. Rose petals, plums, blackberries are all there lifted above some chunky charred oak. The fruit flavors tend to be more embracing on the palate with black cherries joining the plum and blackberry flavors. The oak is also evident but more so at the back of the palate and there is a silky texture to the wine with firm but smooth tannins, so typical of fine Merlot. Be a little patient with this wine. It will be at its optimum drinking time in another 3-5 years. With this amount of bottle age the tannins will soften and the fruit components will blend harmoniously with the other complexing agents. Lighter meats such as veal and pork are best suited to this wine. Heavier red meat and game would overwhelm its delicate fragrance.

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