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.

The mouthfeel is round and smooth but balanced by bright acidity with hints of stone fruit and honey make for an elegant and perfectly ripened chardonnay from the Central Coast of California.

Tucked away in Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux, next to Saint Emilion, is award winning Château de Colombe, a tiny estate much neglected until we took ownership in 2012. Now it’s being lavished with utmost care in the vineyard and the cellar. Our Head Winemaker, Haut-Brion-trained Jean-Marc Sauboua, quickly spotted the potential of its steep, south-facing slopes and limestone soils. Judging by the 11 Golds won over the last five vintages (two for 2020), he was spot on. 2020 has been unanimously declared as 'exceptional', its fruit deliciously ripe, which has made for a very much ‘drink me now’ style. Merlot with a little of both Cabernets and Malbec, aged a few months in barrel, this red is fruit-rich and supple. For now open early and decant.

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.

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.

When it comes to Australian Merlot, Katnook is among the very best. Lovely plum dark berry and cedary cigar box characters slip seamlessly into a finish that seems everlasting. Aged for 22 months in French oak, the swathes of blackcurrant are a delight to the senses.

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.