Shaped by the great red soils of the Clare Valley, Mr Mick Cabernet Merlot 2021 delivers the classic balance of structure and softness that has made this blend a world favourite. As one of the most iconic expressions of red wine, the Merlot component adds beautiful middle-palate texture and juiciness, seamlessly softening Cabernet Sauvignon’s powerful structural tannins, resulting in a wine that is both elegant and deeply satisfying. The wine opens with fragrant lifted notes of juicy plums, inky blackberry, coffee bean, and a touch of dark chocolate, wrapped around subtle hints of violet and herbal spice that speak clearly of its premium Clare Valley origins.

On the palate, it is mouth-filling, long and polished, delivering rich waves of black fruit, dark cherry, cocoa nibs and fine tannin, making it a pleasure to drink now while offering potential to mellow gracefully with further bottle age. The soft, textured tannins create a smooth finish, guided by 24 months of French oak maturation and careful blending, reflecting the Mr Mick philosophy of producing affordable wines of exceptional drinkability for everyone to enjoy. This approach comes from one of Australia’s most iconic winemaking families, with the range proudly named in honour of the great K.H. “Mick” Knappstein, a Clare Valley legend known for innovation, generosity and pioneering spirit.

This beautifully balanced red blend pairs naturally with grilled lamb cutlets, braised beef cheek, mushroom risotto or a slow-cooked ragù over fresh pasta, while the elegant fruit purity also makes it a relaxed partner for a cheese board featuring aged cheddar and mild blue. Crafted for immediate pleasure but equally suited to five to eight years of cellaring, this Cabernet Merlot highlights why Clare Valley red blends are loved for both flavour and value.