Lethbridge Hugo George Sangiovese Merlot 2018 from Geelong opens with a savoury, sun‑drenched complexity drawn from the cool, elevated slopes of Geelong, blended by winemaker Ray Nitschke with a deft hand. This Lethbridge Hugo George Sangiovese Merlot 2018 Geelong release is a persuasive buy for those hunting a structured, age‑worthy red with Italian‑style acidity and soft McLaren‑style fruit.

On the nose there is dried cherry, plum and red currant layered with leather, dried oregano, tomato vine and a whisper of oak spice, framed by fine, chalky tannins and cool‑climate acidity. The palate is medium‑bodied yet layered, with a long, iron‑tinted finish that rewards slow, contemplative drinking rather than casual quaffing.

Serve with pasta in a rich tomato‑based ragu, slow‑braised beef cheeks or a simple wood‑fired pizza, best enjoyed at a relaxed weekend dinner. Buy a bottle now for tonight’s table and add another to the cellar to enjoy its evolving complexity over the next five to ten years.