Merlot “The Revivalist” 2018 – Hickinbotham

The Hickinbotham Merlot “The Revivalist” 2018 is a testament to the winemaking prowess and vineyard excellence that define the celebrated Hickinbotham estate, nestled within the renowned McLaren Vale wine region of Australia. This vintage captures the essence of Merlot, showcasing the varietal’s capacity for depth, complexity, and elegance when cultivated under the ideal conditions provided by McLaren Vale’s unique terroir. “The Revivalist” 2018 is more than just a wine; it is a vibrant expression of the vineyard’s commitment to elevating Merlot to new heights, offering a lush, sophisticated experience that resonates with both the novice and the connoisseur.

McLaren Vale’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm days and cool, breezy nights, alongside its rich, diverse soil profiles—from sandy loams to dense clay—creates a perfect backdrop for the Merlot grape. This climate, coupled with the vineyard’s attentive cultivation practices, ensures the development of grapes with optimal balance, intensity, and varietal character. The 2018 vintage was particularly notable for its excellent conditions, leading to an exceptional harvest that allowed for the creation of a Merlot with remarkable structure and flavor intensity.

At the Hickinbotham Clarendon Vineyard, the approach to viticulture is marked by a combination of traditional wisdom and innovative techniques, all aimed at achieving sustainability and expressing the true character of the fruit. The Merlot grapes for “The Revivalist” are carefully selected and harvested at the peak of their ripeness, ensuring a richness of flavor and an ideal balance of acidity and tannins that are crucial for the wine’s aging potential and complexity.

The vinification process for “The Revivalist” 2018 adheres to the highest standards of quality and precision. Following a gentle fermentation, designed to preserve the fruit’s delicate flavors and aromatic profile, the wine undergoes aging in French oak barrels. This meticulous aging process not only enhances the wine’s structural complexity but also introduces subtle notes of vanilla, spice, and toast, adding layers of depth without overpowering the inherent fruitiness of the Merlot.

In the glass, “The Revivalist” 2018 presents an alluring deep ruby hue, inviting one to explore the rich tapestry of aromas that await. The nose is greeted with an opulent blend of dark fruits—ripe plums, black cherries, and a hint of blueberry—complemented by nuances of dark chocolate, leather, and a gentle herbal undertone that adds freshness and complexity. The integration of oak is seamless, contributing whispers of warm spices and a slight smokiness that elevates the wine’s bouquet.

Upon tasting, the wine reveals its full-bodied elegance and velvety texture. The palate is treated to a symphony of lush, ripe fruit flavors that mirror the aromatic complexity, supported by a backbone of well-integrated, silky tannins that provide structure and longevity. The acidity is perfectly balanced, ensuring that “The Revivalist” remains vibrant and engaging from the first sip to the last. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression of the wine’s layered richness and the craftsmanship behind its creation.

“The Revivalist” Merlot 2018 exemplifies the Hickinbotham estate’s dedication to producing wines of exceptional quality and character. It is a bold statement of the potential of Merlot, a varietal often underestimated, to achieve greatness in the hands of skilled winemakers working in concert with the generous gifts of nature. This wine is not only a pleasure to drink but also a versatile partner to a wide array of culinary dishes, capable of elevating any dining experience.

In essence, “The Revivalist” Merlot 2018 is a celebration of the Merlot varietal, the McLaren Vale terroir, and the art of winemaking. It stands as a testament to the Hickinbotham estate’s legacy and its ongoing quest to push the boundaries of excellence, inviting wine lovers to rediscover Merlot in a new and profound way.