Domaine Elian Da Ros Vignobles D'Elian Marmande
This is one of the gems produced by cult winemaker Elian Da Ros, who learned the art of winemaking at the prestigious Domaine Zind Humbrecht in Alsace before taking over the family vineyard. This luscious red is a blend of half Cabernet Franc, with the rest a split between Merlot and Syrah and matured for 18 months in old oak. Drink young for the sheer enjoyment.
Wirra Wirra Church Block Cabernet Shiraz Merlot
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.
Mollydooker The Scooter Merlot
This vibrant and lifted Merlot exudes rich plum flavours with undertones of both red and dark fruits with a soft touch of oak. As the wine develops in the glass, layers of chocolate, nutmeg, cinnamon and cardamom spices come to the fore. The soft mouthfeel and tannin integration allow for all the beautiful flavours of this wine to shine through.
Smith & Hooper Reserve Merlot
Bright and medium depth in colour with a crimson red hue. There are aromas of plums, roses, blueberries and spice with a touch of cedar. The palate has impressive supple texture, it opens with jujube fruit transitioning to a silky linear tannin and plum middle palate.The wine finishes refreshingly bright and lingers long after the last sip. This is a wine to cellar for ten years and will be drinking at its best in five years. Enjoy with roast chicken or contemplate over a vintaged cheddar.
Rose
Oakway Estate Merlot
A medium body Merlot with dry, fine tannins and intense dark fruits. French Oak lurks in the background with a fresh tobacco nose. Beautiful plum purple rim in colour makes this a Merlot to remember. Elegant and sophisticated.
Carlmagnus
Monkey Rock Winery Merlot
Made from grapes grown in Pemberton WA, which were fermented on skins with the natural wild yeast then gently basket pressed. Made without any aging in oak, this Merlot is all about the fruit. Think plums and red berries.
DiGiorgio Family Wines Coonawarra Sparkling Merlot
A rich wine with a soft creamy texture, just the way a traditional Aussie sparkling red should be. Drink it now while it still has plenty of bubbles. Try it with roast turkey or any game meat or even with fruit cake and raisins.
DFR Arrogance Merlot Rose
A cheerful rosé, which plays everything on the card of ripe red fruits, plus good acidity and a little residual sugar, which perfectly balances the whole ensemble. The color is salmon pink, and the nose, intense, brings peaches, strawberries, and discreet mineral sensations. The body is ample, unctuous, with well-integrated alcohol. The taste comes with strawberries, pink grapefruit and rose jelly. The aftertaste, long and fresh, is due to the bittersweet citrus. An extremely suitable wine to be