The plentiful vintage of 2013 was not one of those ‘vintages of the century’ but Tawse winemaker Paul Pender has put forth a brilliant Merlot worthy of any vintage. 18 months in French oak might seem a little long, but it works to give the wine a lovely spice on the finish and is integrated very well allowing the mocha, blackberry, raspberry, vanilla and smoke to really shine through.  Price: $49.95 – Rating: ****