Tasting Notes - Stefano Lubiana Merlot 2001

From memory the first stright merlot I have tried from Tassie. 2001 was a warmer year so vintage conditions gave the winery every to knock out a good wine.Some intensity on the nose wih good lift from some sweet fruit. Palate is quite tight with some astringency and powdery tannin driving the mouthful. Fruit is kept well in check and is more generic berry in character. Despite the tightness still quite a smooth wine. Almost cool climate cabernet like without the hard tannins. Can't help but feel it needs more time.