The 1996 Merlot tastes tame. Monolithic and foursquare, it reveals a dark ruby color, some oak and fruit, but no depth or length. It is a chunky, berry fruit-driven wine to be consumed over the next 2-3 years. Elderton's wines are not for tasters seeking subtlety and elegance. This is an outrageously oaky, flamboyantly-styled offering with immense hedonistic appeal.Imported by The Australian Premium Wine Collection, John Larchet, USA Wine West LLC, San Rafael, CA; tel. (800)-485-5753 and Chicago Brands, Chicago, IL; tel. (312) 466-9300.

More Barossa than Merlot, this plush, juicy wine is very ripe and spicy, with black cherry, smoke and exotic spice flavors swirling through the nicely focused finish. Drink now through 2005. 1,500 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa Select to Add