Ripe and generous, the leafy, minty characters of Cabernet are complemented by the softness and plummy fruit coming from the Merlot. A nice touch of sweet oak completes the picture.

Oakridge Over the Shoulder Cabernet Merlot is bold fruit driven and mouth filling, this wine combines old world style with contemporary wine making techniques.

Ben Riggs has hand-crafted a delicious Shiraz Cabernet Merlot blend here that pays homage to the three-spiked prickle that can be found in the McLaren Vale region and the fact that it's hard to ignore. This unctuous red blend is also extremely hard to ignore with its seamless varietal integration that produces a wine full of richness and opulence. Ripe, dark berry fruits courtesy of Merlot along with spice elements from the Shiraz and a firm, but balanced structure from the Cabernet all come together superbly.

Shottesbrooke Merlot from the well drained McLaren Vale is a wonderfully full flavoured, deep and vibrant red wine. Medium body, typical of the variety, combined with fine tannins and a smooth finish, this makes an ideal food accompaniment for poultry and Italian dishes.

Tim Kirk has quickly become Australia's Shiraz-Superstar. With cool-climate vineyards that are managed pefectly and with expert guidance, Clonakilla is a must have for all serious wine lovers. Tim's Hilltops Shiraz has luscious dark Shiraz fruit, with blackberry, roasted meat and gentle spice in the background. The tannins are ripe, the fruit juicy, the finish long and savoury. Superb.

Since the first release in 2002, Fraser Gallop Estate have gone from strength to strength, picking up a Jimmy Watson Medal along the way. The Cabernet Merlot is a lovely example of the blend which is so at home in Margaret River. Leafy mulberry on the nose with cassis in the background, and a soft , flavoursome palate. Delicious!

Aaron Mercer's new self-named venture is going from strength to strength, and is delivering some exceptional wines from across NSW, in this case Hilltops Tempranillo.Bright, deep purple. Youthful black cherry, blood plum, plum, pepper and cedar box. Crisp and refreshing entry, in a medium-bodied frame, with supple red fruit flavours, silken tannin structure, vibrant red berry acidity and good complexity throughout.

Lush, mouth filling sweet blackberry and plums elegantly cover the palate with nuances of sweet spice. Silky, fine tannins and dark chocolaty notes tickle throughout the lengthy palate with youthful and pretty finish.