Soho Revolver Merlot Blend 2022

SOHO Revolver Merlot Blend is a bold, polished Waiheke red built around Merlot, with ripe blackberry, cassis and plum joined by violet, tobacco, graphite and savoury spice. The palate is full-bodied and dry, with generous dark fruit held in shape by firm, fine tannins and lively acidity. The fruit comes from SOHO's Carter Vineyard in Onetangi, and the 2022 blend brings together Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Syrah. There is plenty of depth here without losing its composure, making it a fine match for steak, slow-cooked beef or a well-stocked cheeseboard.

What the winery says:

The 2022 Revolver is a single-vineyard wine from the Carter Vineyard in Onetangi, Waiheke Island. The blend is 45% Merlot, 21% Malbec, 16% Petit Verdot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 3% Syrah. The fruit was hand harvested, with 44% new oak used in maturation. Expect ripe blackberry, blackcurrant and dark plum characters alongside cigar and chocolate notes, with a well-weighted palate, structured tannins and a long finish.

What the experts say:

Cameron Douglas MS, 95 Points, Outstanding (2022)
“An excellent bouquet of dark berries and graphite, sweet cigar scents and wood smoke, stony baked clay soils and violets.”

Candice Chow, Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, 94 Points (2022)
“This Merlot blend is harmonious, with enticing acidity and lush fruit on a fine tannin frame.”