The 2021 Picardy Merlot Cabernets is a beautifully refined Bordeaux-inspired blend that showcases the elegance and cool-climate character of Pemberton, Western Australia. Produced by the acclaimed Picardy estate, this wine is crafted from 56% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon and 19% Cabernet Franc, reflecting the classic Right Bank philosophy while expressing the unique personality of the Pemberton region. The outstanding 2021 vintage has produced a wine of remarkable balance, structure and longevity, with the estate describing it as one of its most refined Merlot Cabernet blends to date.
The nose is beautifully perfumed and expressive, revealing aromas of black cherry, red plum and blackcurrant layered with violet, cedar and subtle floral notes. As the wine opens, hints of tobacco leaf, graphite and dried herbs emerge, complemented by touches of dark chocolate, earth and gentle French oak. The aromatic profile is lifted and elegant, displaying impressive fruit purity while retaining the savoury complexity expected from a classic Bordeaux blend.
On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied with silky, fine-grained tannins and vibrant natural acidity. Layers of blackcurrant, plum and dark cherry are supported by notes of cedar, cocoa, graphite and subtle savoury herbs. The Merlot provides plush fruit and texture, Cabernet Sauvignon contributes structure and length, while Cabernet Franc adds aromatic lift and freshness. The wine is beautifully balanced, offering concentration without heaviness, and finishes long, polished and persistent with lingering notes of dark fruits, spice and mineral complexity. The style is elegant, restrained and unmistakably Old World in inspiration, while remaining distinctly Australian in fruit purity. Picardy notes that the wine should continue to evolve gracefully for up to twenty years.
Ben’s Recommendation:
At Wine More Cellars, this is one of Australia’s finest cool-climate Bordeaux blends and an outstanding alternative to premium Margaret River Cabernet blends or Right Bank Bordeaux. Compared to many richer Cabernet-dominant Australian wines, the 2021 Picardy Merlot Cabernets offers greater elegance, finer tannins and exceptional balance while still delivering impressive depth and concentration. It’s a wine that will appeal equally to lovers of Bordeaux, premium Australian Cabernet blends and collectors looking for a cellar-worthy red that consistently overdelivers. Drink now with extended decanting or cellar comfortably over the next 15–20 years. Perfect with roast lamb, beef Wellington, venison, duck, mushroom dishes, aged hard cheeses or classic French cuisine.
