Barnaby Flanders created this label in 2006 following his amicable split with Allies co-founder David Chapman and today focuses on a range of small-batch Mornington Peninsula wines with the emphasis on single-site, sub-regional expressions of his region.

The 2021 Merricks Pinot Noir, like in most other years, was the last fruit to ripen and therefore the last to be picked. The whole bunch portion was a little higher than usual this year (60%), Flanders recognised the fruit could handle this given the quality and concentration of the vintage, which has added a savoury edge and a tannin complexity. The winemaking was, in true Garagiste form, pretty hands-off: natural fermentation, gentle extraction and 10 months in 25% new oak.

Tasting Notes

"Of the 2 single-vineyard wines (the other Balnarring), Merricks is making a statement in ’21 – look at me. It’s not big, but it packs a punch. The 50% whole bunches in the ferment have imparted Italian flavours of chinotto, amaro and Mediterranean herbs with a distinct ferrous-stony note. Pop and crunch to the acidity and raw-silk tannins in harmony across the even palate. A stylish and super-savoury drink." 95 points - Halliday Wine Companion, Jane Faulkner (2022).