A legend, that is the only correct word for the striking winemaker Geoff Merrill. The vineyards can be found not far from Adelaide in McLaren Vale where a ridge and a cool sea breeze provide some relief. Geoff has special ideas of his own: he makes his wines not for the short term but for the long term. He also does not shy away from aging in wood, as long as the wines can bear it. Also very remarkable is that Geoff lets his wines first drink before they appear on the market. For example, the reserve wines are only available 6 years after the harvest and the estate wines 3 years after the harvest. This is partly possible due to the presence of fine acids that give the wine a rich fruit structure and enhance the complexity. The Reserve Shiraz has received the Jimmy Watson Memorial Trophy, Australia's highest honor for a Shiraz.

The Geoff Merrill Bush Vine GSM is a typical Australian "SGM blend" with a peppery aroma. As the name implies, it is a blend of Shiraz Grenache & Mourvedre. In the nose scents of blackberries, slightly licorice and pepper. In the mouth a firm structure, round tannins and a long finish with spicy aromas.

Wine Reviews:

94 points Sam Kim (Wine Orbit)

A gorgeous wine showing gloriously attractive aromas of dark fruit, cedar, smoked game, dark chocolate and mushroom on the nose, leading to a concentrated palate that is plump and fleshy. The wine offers terrific fruit power and generosity, brilliantly structured by fine, chalky tannins, finishing impressively long and seductive. 5 stars .

93 points Australian Wine Showcase Magazine

92 points Ray Jordan (The West Australian)

Extra time in bottle has added another dimension into this fleshy, opulent blend. Lush chocolate and spicy, savory plum, with a lick of cedary oak. Dense mid palate and a long finish. Pop a bottle or two in the cellar to see how it ages.