Moppity Vineyards 'Lock & Key' New South Wales Merlot 2022 - 12 Bottles

Winery Background

Moppity Vineyards is a family‑run estate based in New South Wales’ Hilltops region, overseen by Jason and Alecia Brown. The Lock & Key Merlot sits within their approachable range and regularly earns praise for delivering ripe, expressive fruit with strategic softness and structure.

Vineyards and Vintage Conditions

The 2022 Merlot was grown on elevated blocks in Hilltops, where warm days and cool nights helped the grapes retain natural acidity while achieving flavour intensity. Careful yield management ensured fruit concentration without overpowering the varietal clarity.

Winemaking Process

Fruit was gently cold‑soaked and fermented for around eleven days before being matured in older French hogsheads and barriques. The resulting wine focuses on fruit richness and smooth tannin integration with minimal oak influence.

Tasting Notes

This Merlot is plush and generous, offering juicy plum and dark cherry flavours with accents of dark chocolate, spice and briar. The finish is velvety, well‑textured and generous in length without losing freshness.

Food Pairing

Pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, especially lamb or pork, as well as mushroom-based vegetarian dishes, aged cheeses, and richer vegetable-forward fare.

Story Behind the Wine

Lock & Key Merlot represents a cool‑climate take on Merlot from Hilltops. It delivers a satisfying balance of rich fruit and soft tannins with regional nuance front and centre. Smooth in texture and structured in form, this wine is made for those who enjoy approachable yet expressive red wine.