2015 Ruckus Estate The Q Merlot

Ruckus Estate make their wines from their 100 Acre vineyard in the Joanna section of the Wrattonbully wine region, the vineyard producers Cabernet, Shiraz, Malbec and Merlot. It is safe to say that the owners Colleen and Mike have a passion for Merlot and are championing the planting of improved clones in Australia. The estate has planted D3v14, 8R, 131 and 343 over the last two decades and this wine is produced solely from the Q45 clone.

A medium red in the glass with good clarity. The nose is so far away from the confected, over oaked examples of the variety that are all to common in this country. It is a mix of brambly black fruits with rosemary and sage spice with a touch of cured meat for good measure. A medium bodied wine that has finely textured tannins and acidity that support and frame blackberry fruit with faint touches of leather and chocolate. The finish is drying and savoury fruited.

Ruckus Estate are laying the foundation for the Australian public to both better understand as well as drink better quality Merlot and should be commended.