d'Arenberg are quintessential McLaren Vale and the produce wines that reflect their regionality perfectly. Even down to their affordable value for money wines like this Stump Jump GSM blend. A flavoursome, easy drinking style, ripe and juicy with lovely soft tannins and a savoury, earthy touch.

The Parson GSM is a traditional take on three of McLaren Vale's most important and historical varieties. The wine displays hints of rosemary and aniseed the nose. The big palate is layered with liquorice and dark chocolate flavours that are beautifully interwoven into the textured firm tannin structure.

This blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Viognier is a relatively recent addition to Henschke's impressive range. Typically fragrant plum and raspberry aromas, followed by a velvety palate with rich fruit flavours and well intergraded tannins. Henry's Seven will not disappoint.

Michel Chapoutier continues to produce wines of unbelievable value and his Cotes du Rhône is the leader of the pack. For under $20, medium bodied reds don't get better than this.

Voluptuous, juicy red berry, dark chocolate and savoury spice flavours with soft flowing tannins, smooth and balanced. The Blockhead range is characterised by its drinkability and its soft, lush and generous palate.

Some would say McLaren Vale is the spiritual home of Australian Grenache. We are not about to start arguing when Grenache like this one from Chapel Hill are produced. Generous rich red fruits with smattering of dried herbs and a fleshy mid-palate. There is real concentration and complexity to this wine.

John Duval was the Chief Winemaker at Penfolds from 1986 - 2002, entrusted to make some of Australia's most iconic wines. This traditional old vine blend is a superb expression of the Barossa. Savoury, spice and subtle oak sweetness on the nose lead to smooth, seamless palate laden with plum jam and liquorice fruit.

DOMAINE LA BARROCHE Julien Barrot, Chateauneuf-du-Pape