The fruit for this refined and subtle wine was sourced from sloping vineyards located on the foothills of the cooler Pyrenees and Cevennes mountains, in the South of France where the soils are heavy in limestone - perfect for the delicate Pinot Noir. It was aged for 6 months in French oak and bottled early in order to capture the grapes primary flavors.Refreshing and subtle aromas of ripe raspberries and cranberries with hints of plum and a touch of toast are evident on the nose. The palate shows a balance of ripe fruit and freshness with an appealing spicy smokiness.

The nose is teeming with red fruits and florals.Raspberry and cherry with a hint rose and violet. The true giveaways to the vintage however, lie in the distinct white pepper and spice notes. The palate follows suit with bright red fruit and spice.

Spinifex Papillon is a vibrant and luscious red from the Baross Valley that is a blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Mataro. Made in the typical modern Australian mould, the Papillon is bright and aromatic with lifted cherry, red currant and spicy raspberry. A very perfumed wine with earthy flavours of beetroot and white pepper which lends itself to being a terrific food style wine with lovely acid structure and a medium weight.

Calvet Grande Reserve is a red colour with purple hints. Powerful and complex nose, with scents of red fruits and spices. The attack is nice and structured, with flavours of cherry and vanilla. The finish is long and pleasant.

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.

Some would say McLaren Vale is the spiritual home of Australian Grenache. We are not about to start arguing when Grenache like this one from Chapel Hill are produced. Generous rich red fruits with smattering of dried herbs and a fleshy mid-palate. There is real concentration and complexity to this wine.

La Forge Estate Pinot Noir is a deep bright and lovely light garnet-red colour. Very elegant with a quintessence of red berries, strawberry, cherry, and soft spices aromas with a hint of vanilla. Its a medium bodied wine, with ripe tannins and acidity which testify its capability to age. It develops very delicate aromas and a long lasting finish.

This bright, juicy Grenache displays peppery notes, along with raspberry, cherry and wild strawberries on the palate. Balancing blueberry and sandalwood, it finishes with a floral high note. Absolutely scrumptious.