I am not a fan of New World Merlot, but Marquis Philips' 2001 Merlot (a 100% Merlot from both Padthaway and McLaren Vale that was aged one year in old oak) is outstanding. Its dense ruby/purple color is accompanied by sweet aromas of vanilla, black cherries, mocha, smoke, and a hint of chocolate. Dense, textured, medium to full-bodied, with low acidity and luscious fruit, this is a sweetheart of a Merlot. The good news is that there are 2,680 cases. Marquis Philips is the most exciting wine project to emerge from Australia, and perhaps the New World, in the last year. Run, don't walk to a client of The Grateful Palate and secure as much as you can of these wines.This must be the most exciting development that has occurred in the Southern Hemisphere over the last several years. Marquis Philips is a partnership between highly talented winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis and their American importer, Dan Philips (of The Grateful Palate). I favorably reviewed the stunning debut values of the Marquis Philips range in the 2000 vintage. Remarkably, the 2001s are even more amazing, and probably for the price, the greatest red wine values in existence ... anywhere! Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283