With its attractive garnet hue, the Château de L’Abbaye wines are defined by an intense bouquet laden with blueberries and plums and delicate oaky nuances. The palate allies power with finesse, revealing robust tannins and a persistent, fruity finish. A delicious, delicate Haut-Médoc wine, that can be enjoyed on its own. Château de L’Abbaye is located in the district of Vertheuil in the Médoc, close to the prestigious appellation of Saint-Estèphe. Its name was inspired by the famous Vertheuil Abbey (“Abbaye” in French) near to the vines and founded in the 11th century. Setting the standards since 1850, and “classed among the finest in the land” in the 12th edition of the 1969 Féret wine guide, today the Château owes its unique character to 100% Merlot plantings.

I am so excited about Californian wine production - it’s always a thrill to see these wines on our shores. This is pinot with power - smokey and meaty at the fore, which gives way to a dried cherry and pink flower potpourri and sweet baking spice. On the palate it’s silky smooth and delightfully shapely with some punchy acidity give the wine real get-up-and-go. This isn’t so much lithe and supple as it is round in the mouth; almost (but not quite) enough to be stepping outside the bounds of varietal typicity. Structured and bold but ethereal none the less.

Beautifully integrated tropical flavors such as pineapple, mango, and papaya with citrus notes that explode in your mouth. These flavors from Kendall - Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay, delicately intertwine with aromas of vanilla and honey to create depth and balance throughout. A hint of toasted oak rounds out the long, lingering finish.

Now sourcing fruit from premium regions across Australia, this Cabernet blend shows varietal mint on the nose with floral notes in the background. The palate has good weight and texture, the flavours of blackcurrant and herb framed by firm tannins.

The 2008 release of this took out the prestigious tri-nations award. The 2009 from a stronger vintage looks even better. A classicist?s Merlot; plum and cassis supported by fine tannin.

This limited release Merlot is produced from a 5 star Halliday rated winery, Parker Coonawarra Estate. The wine reflect the stylistic approach to creating beautiful wines from the rich terra rossa soils of the Coonawarra region. The Merlot combines dark cherries and plums, dusted with a hint of tobacco. This wine is savoury and lush with persistence and a fine, silky finish.

Grown in vineyards that are over 45 years old, this medium bodied Zin has exceptional varietal character with lovely aromas of dark fruit and blackberry. Subtle pepper spice mingles with richly concentrated fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plums and fresh red raspberries. Barrel aging created its smooth, silky finish and unprecedented depth.