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.

Château Pichon-Longueville Baron has become simply known as

Seductive nose dominated by raspberry, cherry and redcurrant aromas. Soft and smooth on th palate developing aromas of small red berries.

Complex aromas of red and black fruit, graphite and black truffle with faint marine influence as it unfolds in a glass. Medium-bodied on the palate with brambly note underneath the core of blueberry, acai and boysenberry fruit. Firm tannin with impressive backbone and loads of licorice, bay, tobacco and black tea flavours fill in through the finish.

Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast and awarded 2 Stars by Guide Hachette des Vins, the 2016 Les Mesclances St Honorat Rouge is a premium AOC Cotes de Provence red blend showcasing the elegance and ageing potential of Provence reds. Crafted predominantly from Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, this estate-grown wine displays a deep garnet colour with an expressive bouquet of blackberry, blackcurrant and ripe plum, layered with subtle notes of black pepper, sweet spice and well-integrated oak. The palate is rich and beautifully structured, combining concentrated dark fruit with silky tannins, fresh acidity and a refined mineral character. Hints of liquorice and gentle spice linger through a long, balanced finish, reflecting the wine's maturity and exceptional craftsmanship. A superb match for grilled lamb, roast beef, duck, slow-cooked meats, mushroom dishes and mature cheeses. Decant for 30?60 minutes before serving at 16?18øC for the best expression.

This Cote Rotie Chateau D'Ampuis 2007 by Guical is made from 93% Syrah and 7% Viognier from 7 exceptional terroirs: Le Clos

Warm, complex, earthy spice tones with a lovely richness. Powerful yet elegant and ageing beautifully.

A very important estate in St-Émilion, Château Angélus was acquired by the de Boüard de Laforest family in 1924 and merged with the previously owned Château Mazerat. The apostrophe was dropped in 1989 and is now simply known as Angélus. The wines are characterised by a fabulous texture offered by the high component of Cabernet Franc with the plump softness added by the Merlot creating a wine of pleasing plushness.

Made from the Gamay grape variety it is surprising that Beaujolais is not more popular in Australia! Soft, juicy and delicious - this is the ideal picnic companion.