Awards, Ratings & Reviews
AUSTRALIA'S BEST MERLOT — Young Gun of Wine · Aug 2025
“Among the top selections of Payseno, this merlot was all power and personality. “Rich, robust, powerful – a merlot you can really sink your teeth into.” He found it savoury and herbal, with “tomato leaf, iodine and ironstone – almost like drinking a Bloody Mary.” Though the fruit sat back, bright red cherry and ripe red plum came through when needed, alongside plenty of acid and tannin to match the intensity. “Very food friendly – if you give it some fattiness to cut through.”
93/100 — James Suckling · 2023 Vintage
“Vibrant and perfumed aromas of blueberries, blackberries, potpourri, wet bark and dried herbs. The palate is medium-bodied with finely integrated tannins and a generous texture, giving notes of mulberry bush, graphite, forest floor and cured meat. There’s a savory undertone coming from 100% whole-bunch fermentation. Unique. Drink or hold.”
About This Wine
This Merlot from the Yarra Valley is produced using whole-bunch fermentation, reflecting Timo Mayer’s distinctive winemaking approach.
The wine shows savoury and herbal characters alongside red cherry and ripe plum fruit, supported by bright acidity and firm tannins.
Specifications
Vintage: 2024
Grape Variety: Merlot
Region: Yarra Valley / Victoria / Australia
Alcohol: 13.5%
Closure: Cork