Vintages Release: November 26, 2011

Oyster Bay ‘Hawkes Bay’ Merlot 2010
Hawkes Bay, North Island, New Zealand $18.95 (692343) 13.5% alcohol
Oyster Bay has two wildly popular Vintages Essentials—Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay—this Merlot may be the pearl in the oyster. Black spice-laden plum, wisps of wood smoke and espresso roast aromas provide segue to an über smooth and mellow mouthful of dark, juicy berry fruit, plummy tones and sweet, ripe black cherry. It’s medium bodied with creamy texture and a balanced fruit-forward aftertaste. Versatile at the table, it pairs well with roast chicken, leg of lamb or roast pork. (Vic Harradine)