First made back in 1997 and still definitely one of the sentimental favourites in the Kilikanoon portfolio, the Prodigal continues to set the standard for Clare Valley old-vine Grenache. Each fruit parcel was harvested and kept separate throughout the winemaking process until final assemblage. A fresh and lively palate, yet dark and brooding at the same time, the combination of ripe cherries, dark chocolate, kitchen spices and kirsch perfectly in sync with the fine chalky tannins and oak influences rounding out to a long flavoursome finish.

92pt latest (2025) release of an Adelaide Hills pink sparkler that has been described in recent releases by the Halliday Companion as "among Australia's best… Confidently presented with complexity and poise… Runs fine, long and so impressive. All class" having offered "Exciting drinkability and sophistication all in one glass" and what's more, "It would be hard to find a more crowd-pleasing rosé fizz than this. It is delicious and elegant and sophisticated worthy of serious attention.– as Jane Faulkner said of this latest NV (2025 release) it is “very good rosé in anyone’s book” (Halliday).

Another very attractive release from the hugely dynamic Zonte's Footstep. An Adelaide Hills Shiraz with TWO Double Golds "...offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit). He adds that it is: “Sweetly fruited with complexity, the wine exhibits aromas of black and blueberry, star anise, floral notes, and hazelnut on the nose. The palate is equally satisfying with a plump mouthfeel backed by fleshy texture and supple tannins, offering excellent drinking. 92pts” (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit).

Crafted by Australian winemaking veteran Tim Knappstein, Riposte ‘The Peacemaker’ Pinot Noir showcases the pedigree of cool-climate Adelaide Hills fruit. Sourced from high-altitude vineyards, hand-picked bunches undergo cold soaking and open-top fermentation before maturation in French oak barriques. The palate delivers focused red cherry and dark plum fruit underpinned by fine tannins and balanced acidity. It offers outstanding value and immediate appeal alongside cellaring potential over the next five years.

The Pike brothers established Pikes winery in the Polish Hill sub-region of the Clare Valley in 1984, renovating an old stone shearing shed to house their winery and cellar door. Neil is the veteran winemaker (he’s done 38 vintages in Clare); Andrew the seasoned viticulturist (he spent 22 years working for big names like Wynn’s Coonawarra and Southcorp before establishing Pikes). Together they turn out formidable wines that earn plenty of show medals and critical acclaim. Their richly textured 2017 'Wilfred's Block' really is magnificent. A definitive Australian blend of inky, slatey Cabernet and sumptuous, spicy Shiraz, it’s a contemplative wine – the layers of flavour will reveal themselves slowly – and perfect for winter sipping. It will cellar well until 2032, but is still drinking beautifully now. Decant, pour into big glasses, and savour with good food and good friends.