Smith's Lane Estate Merlot

Smith’s Lane Estate Merlot 2022 from North‑East Victoria is a fleshy, ripe, smooth red that leans into classic merlot comfort – all cherry and plum charm, built to be easy and generous rather than brooding or tannic.

On the nose and palate you’ll find rich cherry and plum aromas, flowing into a freshly ripe, velvety mouthfeel that keeps tannins soft and the fruit front‑and‑centre. This Smith’s Lane Estate Merlot 2022 is all about supple drinkability: a straightforward, mid‑week merlot that doesn’t demand cellaring or serious contemplation.

As an Adelaide‑based sommelier, I’d match it with Asian‑style foods – think hoisin duck, teriyaki chicken or stir‑fried beef – as well as gamey meats like lamb or venison sausages, where its soft cherry‑plum profile can cosy up nicely to sweet, savoury flavours. It’s also a solid choice for pizza, pasta and casual barbecue plates when you simply want a smooth, friendly red in the glass.