2015 Botham Merrill Willis Shiraz

The Story: Lord Ian Botham and Bob Willis are two of the biggest names in the modern era of world cricket. Geoff Merrill’s reputation on the International stage of winemaking is equally impressive.

A mutual passion for their respective professions, cricket and wine, drew them together during the English tour of Australia in 1978. Since then a lasting friendship has developed over many bottles opened and balls bowled.

Vintage Information: One of the earliest vintages on record this year, with mild weather playing an important role for the region. Rainfall was lower than average and dry conditions from early August, supplementary irrigation was vital.

With only a few sporadic hot days, the weather allowed natural acids with low pH levels to develop. Yields had fallen just below average, however this varied depending on variety. Overall 2015 was a successful vintage.

Winemakers Notes: The colour is a dense ruby red with brick red hues. Savoury tones present first on the aroma, opening up to warm, ripe red berry fruits and spices with subtle hints of oak.

Initially the palate is soft and fine, building into a well structured and full flavoured wine. An abundance of silky tannins adds depth and longevity to the well defined fruit flavours.

Food Pairing: Enjoy with your favourite red meat dishes. Anything from lamb chops to pizza.

Winemakers: Geoff Merrill & Scott Heidrich

Variety: Shiraz

Region: McLaren Vale

Harvest Date: March 2015

Oak Handling : Aged for 27 months in American & French oak hogsheads

Alc: 14.5%, pH: 3.26, TA: 7.40 g/L, RS: 2.4 g/L