The 864 range of wines by David Bicknell at Oakridge showcase the very best vineyards at the disposal of this talented winemaker. The 864 Syrah is sourced from a vineyard that is located at the foot of the Warramate Hills at Coldstream and face due north, taking full advantage of the cool Yarra Valley sunlight. The soils are built on grey-loam alluvial with both high clay and ironstone content. This results in a Syrah that displays a bright purple colour in the glass which is followed up with aromas of ripe red fruit and subtle anise. The palate has a core of sweet Shiraz fruit showing red and black berries and a tannin structure that is both velvety and smooth.

This Chardonnay Pinot noir sparkling wine from Airlie Bank has aromas of citrus fruits and subtle apricot, complemented by a doughy, bready complexity. Fresh and vibrant with a focused palate structure of apple blossom and citrus characters with complex brioche notes.

Sourced from a single vineyard site in the Strathbogie Ranges, ideally suited to growing aromatic and balanced Pinot Gris. The cool nights here allow the fruit to reach optimum ripeness whilst retaining an elegant balance between flavour, alcohol and acidity. This wine by Pacha Mama underwent lees stirring while in barrel, resulting in a buttery richness and complexity that sets the pinot gris style apart from the tighter, more acidic Pinot Grigio. Rich and inviting nose with white musk, fresh quince and honeysuckle. A generous and textural palate, with flavours of crýme brulee, lemon zest and musk, balanced by refreshing acidity and a satisfying, clean finish.

Further testament to both vine age and the merits & complexity of this blend, which allow the wine to rise above an otherwise challenging year. Classic blackcurrant, cigar box and tapenade aromas, overlaid with notes of violet, Christmas cake and sweet spices, lead onto a supple, savoury and effortless palate that builds towards a long & lively finish.

This unfiltered Chardonnay was made at Giaconda by Rick Kinzbrunner using traditional techniques. Quite sublime buttery richness with perfect balance of acid and oak integration.

William Downie and the Thousand Candles team are keen to expand our understanding of premium wine from the Yarra Valley. A shy complexity; a layered sense of tone and colour, and a nervous acceleration as the wine slips seamlessly from beginning to end. A wine that tells the story of its place more so than its varietals. A wine that pushes the boundaries, from one of Australia's most innovative and skilled wine makers.

Yering Station's Yarra Chardonnay displays citrus and subtle cashew notes on the nose with soft minerality and freshness. The palate has great texture and roundness with linear acidity with wonderful length and precision.

Applejack Vineyard was planted by highly respected viticulturist Ray Guerin and is managed by his son Mark. This vineyard is situated in the Upper Yarra Valley to the south east of the traditional valley floor. The higher altitudes result in cooler growing conditions, despite the westerly aspect. The distinctive dark-red volcanic loam soil is a distinguishing feature of the vineyard. Applejack Vineyard is located on a dramatic slope and is close planted and meticulously managed. Australian Pinot royalty! Giant Steps produced this Pinot Noir.

The Levantine Hill Cabernet Sauvignon is redolent with blackberry, blackcurrant and cocoa-rich chocolate. The supple, balanced middle palate evokes truffle, bramble and earthy complexity. An outstanding example of the Yarra Valley region, its chewy, satisfying tannins are beautifully-integrated with fleshy fruit characters, hedonic spice and lingering, persistent length.

Drawing its inspiration from the Bordelaise tradition of blending multiple compatible grape varieties; This Levantine Hill Melange Traditionnel Blanc is a complex, aromatic wine that is crafted for its ageing ability. It displays subtle fruit characters of blood orange, musk, ginger, apricot and gooseberry on the nose with well-integrated savoury oak and acidity on the palate. It has a textural silky finish. A perfect foil for Munster or similar washed-rind cheese.