CLARENDON HILLS Brookman Vineyard Merlot, McLaren Vale Clarendon Hills’ Brookman Vineyard is among the highest in McLaren Vale, 250m higher and 10km north-east of the McLaren Vale township. The vines were planted on clay soils in the late 1960s and are dry-grown. Grapes are hand-picked 2-3 weeks later than on the flats, following a long, mild and generally consistent ripening period. Fermentation as whole berries, using wild yeasts, precedes 18 months maturation in tight-grained French Oak, 85% new, the rest between one and four years old. The final wine is a barrel selection. Brookman Merlot is noted for mulberry and blackcurrant fruit, spice and Christmas cake aromas, opulence, richness of flavour and softness with finely balanced tannins.

Church Block first appeared back in 1972 under the watchful eye of Greg Trott and was taken by one of the original vineyards that ran alongside the small Bethany Church, across the road from Wirra Wirra's old ironstone cellars. Over the last 4 decades, it has become one of Australia's favourites. The 2005 Church Block is showing just what a little patience can do. After six years, the velvet texture is the dominant feature with integrated tannin taking a backseat.

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.

Savour a glass of The Barque Mclaren Vale Merlot with its sweet & tart notes of mulberry and plum. Expertly mixed with a rich mocha flavour, the finish is velvety and smooth, which pairs well with steak, lamb and chicken.

In 1802, the peaceful Encounter of two great explorers, the English Captain Flinders, and the French Captain Baudin, occurred at the co-ordinates of 35 ̊40’S and 138 ̊58’E, off the south coast of South Australia. Following this discovery, a period of settlement and agricultural establishment ensued, and a large winery was built in our region in 1896, which latter became known as Southern Vales Winery. Each one of our wines has a story and integrity of its own. Today, Southern Vales is a place where valley and sea meet, our family’s work hard together, and we all share the bounties of regions natural way of life. Seven is the seed of life, it is the number of perfection, security, safety and rest, it also contains the number three of the heavens and soul with the number four of the earth and body. The No. 7 is a classic Australian blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (54%) and Shiraz (46%), the aromatic and perfumed Cabernet Sauvignon providing the firm structure and distinctive tannin length while the spicy Shiraz contribute the richness and softness. The fruit is complimented and enhanced by extended maturation (24 months) in French oak barrels, which softens and complexes the rich fruits resulting in a full-flavoured and generous wine with great length and harmony. Variety - 54% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Shiraz Region - McLaren Vale Colour - Purple Black Aroma - The rich bouquet shows blue and blackberries, dark cherry, cassis and a touch of anise intermingled with dark chocolate and vanilla oak. Palate - Sweet ripe fruit flavours provide plushness on the palate and are nicely balanced by soft ripe tannins which extend the flavours in the mouth. Rich and full-flavoured now, this wine will benefit from more time in the bottle.

Geoff Merrill's winery in the Mt Hurtle south of Adelaide has been making wines that express variety, vintage and terroir with as little intervention from the winemaker as possible. Full bodied with good tanins and intense fruit and spice characters, the elegance and harmony of this Cabernet Sauvignon are allowed to shine.

Coffee-mocha and dark berry nose, good gentle tannins frame flavoursome generous fruit flavours. An excellent wine at this price.

Selected from 65 year old McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon vines, this wine was matured in French Oak hogsheads for 2 years. Cherry & mint aromas & chocolate oak dominate the nose & carry through to the full, round palate, that finishes with soft velvety tannins. Decant wine & allow to breathe before enjoying. Drink now or cellar for 7-10 years

Colour Rich deep burgundy Nose Rich varietal Cabernet notes- black currant, cigar box, earthy dark fruits, tar and spice Palate Plenty of power on the palate, lovely chewy tannin line through the core of the wine. A delicious blackberry jam note melded with anise and an earthy intensity. Delicious with your lamb roast!