Taltarni Three Monks Cabernet Merlot (75cl, 13.5%)

Taltarni Three Monks Cabernet Merlot is a Bordeaux-inspired Australian red blend from the Pyrenees region of Victoria, bottled at approximately 13.5% ABV in a 750ml format. Taltarni was established in 1969. The blend typically uses roughly 54% Cabernet Sauvignon with 46% Merlot, with proportions shifting by vintage. It undergoes full malolactic fermentation and spends 12 months in two- to three-year-old French and American oak barrels, with approximately 15% new American oak. The nose shows rich cassis, cola, nutmeg, cinnamon, cedar spice, wintergreen and toasted wheat bread. The medium-bodied palate has ripe berry and plum, black-forest flavours, mocha, restrained vanilla oak, fine dusty tannins, earthy undertones and a gentle herb-tobacco thread. The finish is fresh and clean, with moderate length, a smooth claylike texture and lingering dark fruit and subtle spice.