ark Richardson, red specialist at Tyrrell’s calls Heathcote “undoubtedly Australia’s most exciting new red wine producing region.” Buying up vineyards here was the brainchild of Bruce Tyrrell – and it has yielded a red that wins huge numbers of loyal fans every year.

Matured in vats and casks for 7 months. Dark red in colour with black shaded edges and a dark red hue. Lifted dark raspberry and liquorice aromas combine with vanillin oak, earth and spice. Juicy dark raspberry, liquorice and dark cherry fruits carry medium body weight over an earth and vanillin spice back drop. Good flesh and freshness with slightly chewy tannins and a lively dark fruited conclusion. Drink over the next 2-3 years. Alc. 14.5%

Deep, vibrant and intense, 94pt and Great Value Shiraz from the prized biodynamic Heathcote vineyards of highly regarded Sergio Carlei. "The winemaker chose to release the 2019 before the 2018. A smart decision, given the upfront appeal of the '19. The '18 offers a darker intensity but boasts a similar beautiful balance. Deep perfume and flavours rich in Heathcote blackberries, cassis, pastille, bramble, wild bushland aromatics and inviting spice. Moves like a distance runner, fine tannins, firm and sleek.94pts. Great Value.” (Jeni Port, The Halliday Wine Companion). Sergio Carlei graduated as a Doctor of Chiropractic in 1988. Whilst practising, he simultaneously studied for a professional degree in oenology, graduating with his wine making degree in 1996. "Today, Sergio's achievements include being the first and only winemaker for 4 of the top 10 best new wineries in the 2007 Wine Companion by Australia's leading and most notable wine critic, James Halliday. In the companions that follow, all the wineries Sergio has consulted and produced wines for have all been accredited with the highest rating achievable (5 RED Stars), placing them all in the top 6% of Australian wineries." The Carlei estate – Sergio's family home – is in Upper Beaconsfield, Victoria.

A densely layered wine, Mitchell Peppertree Shiraz will be a reward for cellaring. Spice and savoury characters are the features of this wine along with hints of plum blackberry and chocolate. Being packaged under stelvin a big bonus!

Penfolds Max's Shiraz is a tribute to former Chief Winemaker, Max Schubert, a legend in Penfolds history. His constant pursuit of excellence paved the way for those who followed in his footsteps, growing the brand's status and heritage in the process. Fruit-driven and generous in flavour, this fine red has a contemporary, persistent palate with subtle tannins leading to a soft, oak finish.

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.

Vasse Felix produces fine Margaret River reds with great balance and style. This traditional blend of Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon shows sweet mid-palate fruit with liquorice and spice and good tannin structure. Fantastic French oak integration enabling soft tannin complexity and a lovely length of flavour.

Picked from selected premium vineyards for optimum quality, this wine is deep purple in colour with aromas of dark cherry & raspberry. Subtle hints of spice & white pepper lead to an intensely flavoured, well rounded yet relatively soft mouth feel of dark fruits, blackberries & oak influenced raspberries. Medium bodied with a balanced acidity and lingering length, this selection perfectly reflects of both the Heathcote region & the renowned quality of Red Hill Estate.

After being in the cellar, this wine has developed beautifully, offering a more harmonious and rounded expression of its bold beginnings. The initial aromas of plum, spice and pepper have softened into a complex bouquet of stewed dark fruits, dried herbs and gentle spice. On the palate, the blackberry, plum and anise characters remain rich, now layered with subtle earthy and savoury undertones. The once-firm tannins have mellowed into a supportive, silky structure, delivering a smooth, lingering finish. A well-cellared wine now showing balance, depth and elegance.

Intense, textured and showing pure fruit flavours, Jester Shiraz is considered Mitolo's baby G.A.M Shiraz using the same barrels in which the G.A.M was previously aged in. The palate is full of bright, red berry flavours, a subtle herbal character and an overall savoury quality to the finish. Made to be upfront and approachable for early appreciation, the Jester Shiraz delivers excellent quality for the price.

The Little Reddie Bootleg Red (2024) NV from Heathcote is a bold and captivating wine that showcases the talent of this renowned Victoria-based producer. On the nose, rich aromas of ripe blackberries and plums mingle with hints of dark chocolate and a touch of spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and velvety, with a deep crimson hue that hints at its intensity. Flavors of black cherry, cassis, and a subtle smokiness tantalize the taste buds, while soft tannins and a long, lingering finish complete the experience. This vintage NV is a testament to Little Reddie's expertise in crafting exceptional wines that perfectly balance power and finesse. Enjoy this Bootleg Red with a hearty beef stew or a juicy steak for a truly indulgent dining experience.