"Includes 6% each of cabernet sauvignon/cabernet franc; the merlot harvested on March 9, the other components on April 5. All three spent 26 months in French barriques (16% new), giving time for the tannins typical of Ribbon Vale's red wines to soften and integrate. This was a very good vintage with no disease or bird pressure. It has excellent clarity and length, blackcurrant fruit, oak and tannins in harmonious length, the tannins producing uncommon elegance." 

95 points - James Halliday's Wine Companion

 "The twin to the Ribbon Vale Cabernet Sauvignon, this is the Merlot dominant version with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc in support. This is initially a pretty and elegant style, the Cabernet Franc adding delicious subtlety. The wine bursts with vibrant red currant, graphite and pine needle aromas, stylish oak couched in just behind. The palate then shows an impressive mix of concentrated, fleshy fruits and structure – leafy, mulberry flavours with gravel complexity underpinned by firm chalky tannins. The balance and length are exceptional and this may in time become something truly special."

93 points - The Wine Pilot