TASTING NOTES FOR Cumulus Merlot Orange New South Wales 2016

🍷 Appearance
Deep ruby with a soft garnet edge, showing early maturity while retaining good vibrancy and clarity.

👃 Aromas
Lifted and savoury, with dark plum, blackberry and cassis. Layers of dried herbs, tobacco leaf and a touch of mint add complexity, reflecting its cool-climate Orange origins.

👅 Palate
Medium-bodied and elegant, delivering savoury dark berry fruit with a restrained, food-friendly profile. Subtle oak influence supports the fruit, while a gentle herbal edge adds regional character.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Fine-grained tannins provide structure without heaviness. The finish is smooth and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, spice and a soft earthy note.

🍇 Overall Style
A classic cool-climate Orange Merlot—medium-bodied, savoury and elegantly structured. Emphasises balance and drinkability over richness, with a distinctly Australian herbal nuance.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with roast chicken, pork, mushroom dishes or grilled lamb. Also excellent with pasta and soft to medium cheeses.

🥂 BBD Verdict
A refined, savoury Merlot—balanced, smooth and quietly complex.
Perfect for mixed dozens when you want an elegant, food-friendly red that offers something a little more restrained and sophisticated.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷