Dhillon Glenhope Merlot and Friends 2024

It's very un Sideways (the movie that prophersises Pinot Noir) to have a soft spot for Merlot but such is the purity and medium weight beauty of the fruit from Glenhope that the wine, when treated lavishly, is compelling. I really like this pure, complex, age worthy blend of half Merlot, with descending proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Malbec.

The nose has depth and is brooding with classic Merlot plum and Cabernet lift. Subtle chocolate, cassis, earth and cedar make further statements as to the varietal mix. The palate is fresh and midweight. There is berry lift, fine and chewy tannin carrying the poised fruit weight for a flowing, balanced finish. Delicious. Perhaps another six years will see this wine at its best where it would be expected to stay for another decade. Michael Dhillon