On the rise and rise, Chateau Troplong-Mondot is increasingly considered a peer amongst the 1er Grand Cru Classe producers and perseveres with its lavish, luscious, strking wine styles. The wine is produced by Christine Valette in collusion with famed winemaking consultant Michel Rolland, who has been working with the estate since the 1980s, explaining some of the density and power now found in the wine. This 2010 iteration is 90% Merlot and finishes with a balance of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernt Franc. Consider the wine full-flavoured, dense and rich, but with a grace that belies its 15% alcohol

Excellent colour and mid-density. Being 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 29% Shiraz it is more of the classic Aussie blend Cabernet/Shiraz. Lifted dark fruit and cedar notes on the nose. A rich mouthfeel from the McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz. Fine tannins with the oak very much in the background ensuring great drinkability.

Deep garnet red in colour. Intense complex aromas of dark berry fruits, green leafy herbs and a dark chariness fill the glass. The mouth is consistent with the complexity of the aromas. Dark berry fruits are quickly surrounded by savoury herbs and spices with hints of tar, complimented with fine juicy tannins which fill the mouth and a long dry minerally finish.

Guigal is one of the powerhouses of the Rhône and a name synonymous with beautifully crafted wines from some of the regions finest vineyard sites. Deep dark red. Spices and mature red fruits. Round tannins with powerful complexity. A rich unctuous wine with notes of mature plums, hazelnuts and red fruits. Overall: Very rich wine full of harmony and balance.

These wines are medium ruby red with intense purple highlights. Fruit-driven aromas of wild strawberry, blackberry are accompanied by forest soil, hints of clove and black pepper fragrances. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant. The mouth-watering acidity balances the soft tannins to make this Zweigelt an enjoyable and pleasant red wine.