Gigondas always seems to play the little-brother role to Chateauneuf du Pape, but these wines can be very, very good. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre vinified in the purest tradition, this wine is opulent now and will age well for the next 8 or 10 years.

One of the Yarra Valley's up and comers, the Punt Road Shiraz is almost black in colour with aromas of cassis and a whiff of licquorice. A palate of plush plums and blackcurrant follows with flash of peppery spice. Kate Goodman continues to do a stellar job at one of the Yarra Valley's best wineries.

The EJ Shiraz is the jewel in Paxton's organic and biodynamic crown. Awarded 95 points in the Halliday Wine Companion 2017, this wine is the result of low yielding vines that are more than a century old. The flavour is elegant and round and the nose offers vanilla, black current and oak.

Internationally recognised as one of the greatest expressions of Syrah. The La Turque by Guigal is intensely aromatic, powerful and elegant. Supple attack with a balanced supple structure, concentration and elegant tannins.

Dal Zotto is a family run winery in the King valley specialising in traditional Italian varietals. Their Barbera is a great example of the variety with ripe blood plums, spice, and a meaty savouriness. A great food friendly style - add a splash to boost your bolognaise!

Water Wheel is a historic winery located in the traditional wine region of Bendigo in central Victoria. Winemaker Peter Cumming continually produces a Shiraz with aromas of ripe berries, white pepper and chocolate that are also reflected on the palate which also displays attractive regional and varietal character. The depth of fruit and oak balance is excellent. Always a consistent performer, Water Wheel Shiraz is not only enjoyable upon release but is a reliable medium-term cellaring option.

Château Grand Desir Bordeaux has a beautiful deep red hue. The nose is delicate with red fruit notes. On the palate, the wine is well balanced with spicy aromas.

Intense garnet red colour, the nose features fragrant aromas of cassis and blackberry with hints of vanilla. With the acid vein that sustains, the tannin that weaves and the pulp of fruit that everything harmoniously wraps and contains, the mouthfeel is majestic with notes of cherries, clove, licorice, sweet tannins and long finish. Great companion for game, roasted red meats, mature cheeses and salami. Very suitable also as an after dinner drink.