Made by Rockstar winemaker Ben Riggs, the McLaren Vale Shiraz is as true an expression as one could hope for. The fifth release of the wine is based around a core of pristine fruit with dark red berries, hints of spice, earth, tar and leather and with seamlessly integrated oak. Ripe tannins are apparent but not overwhelming, meaning this is a wine which can be enjoyed now or in the next 10-15 years.

Classically pale in the glass, Nebbiolo is a deceptive and beautiful wine by Pizzini. The nose is all allure and seduction with classic, deep rose petal perfume, plenty of anise-scented spice and bright red fruits. The palate's deep, juicy and mouth-filling red cherry and plum flavours run on sturdy tannins, laced with liquorice and finishing bright.

Farnese Edizione gives a very deep garnet red colour. The nose is intense and persistent with notes of cherry and blackcurrant, herbs, cinnamon, cloves, cocoa, liquorice and hints of mineral. The palate has great structure, good balance between alcohol and freshness, velvety tannins, very persistent with a long finish, ready to drink, or can be put in the cellar for a few years.

Ray Nadeson and his richly textured wines have commanded a very strong following of lovers of medium bodied, sophisticated and immaculately made wines. His Heathcote Shiraz is a lovely, generous and spicy Shiraz that has layers of complexity and a length the envy of most.

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.

The inspiration from the Barossas best old vine Grenache vineyards created Annexus, an addition to the John Duval's Plexus blend. Annexus is a small unique blend selected from their best old low yielding Grenache vineyards, made only in the best years.

A stylish blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, with a touch of Shiraz and Petit Verdot, from low yielding vineyards have produced another wine of elegance and class. Blackberry, mint and tobacco flavours are framed by fine tannin. The Shiraz adds some supple softness and the Petit Verdot adding aromatic lift. Another triumph!

Tightly structured and made for the long haul. Freycinet Pinot Noir has the classic dark cherries and forest berries aroma with balanced acidity on the palate.

Lovely blood plum & strawberry notes with hints of aged beef.

Dog Point is responsible for some of Marlborough's best Pinot noir. This release has lifted aromas of dark cherries stone fruit and violets. The palate is rich and complex with a supple velvety texture.