A black curtain of density introduces this thumping Cabernet from Brothers in Arms, unveiling five spice, mint chocolate and full bodied black fruits coated in grippy tannin.

Josef Chromy Pinot Noir has a richness and wholeness that demands attention. Supple tannins with leather and secondary characters abound. A velvety Burgundian style Pinot Noir, with aromas of red fruits and sweet spice with a full rounded palate of rich dark cherry fruit and a balanced blend of toasty oak.

Nugan Estate Alcira Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is classic Coonawarra all the way. Smells of mint and blackcurrant, tastes of cassis and mocha. Over two years in wood, and time in bottle soften the tannins leaving just a gentle grip. A bargain at this price!

Big, beautiful and bold - the wines from Bowen Estate have a huge following. Loaded with cedary and blackberry flavours and firm in structure this wine will reward patient cellaring.

There's a lot to adore about this Cabernet Sauvignon from a beloved family-owned winery. Halliday deemed it worthy of 92 points, and it's picked up four gold medals from Australian wine shows. But if that pedigree doesn't impress you, one sip of this beautiful red will.

The colour is medium density and purple edged, the aroma is of cedar and spicy cassis Cabernet and the earthy terroir character of the Whalebone Vineyard. The Shiraz plays a role in filling out the middle palate. The core of the wine is sweet but the finish is of gentle savoury tannin.The fruit flavours are sweet at the core but the wine retains the elegance, savory balance and refined but determined tannins, which are hallmarks of the Whalebone terroir.

In the winery: Matured for 20 months in new French barriques, Hungarian, French and American hogsheads. In the glass: Inky dark red. On the nose: Ripe dark fruit, a hint of mint, toasty oak and cedary development.On the palate: Intense black fruit power melding well with deluxe mocha oak a rich, dense and complex reserve style with tight, grainy tannins and spicy acidity.

Katnook is a beacon for quality in Coonawarra for many a decade. Their Cabernet is their flagship that has a rich and elegant bouquet with aromas of cedary blackcurrant. Supported by well integrated toasty oak while the palate shows long fine varietal flavours.

Labegorce is found just north of the town of Margaux, opposite Chateau Lascombes. It produces wines that are often favourably compared to its neighbouring classified Margaux Growths, but available for considerably less of an investment. Its instantly recognisable and iconic chateau was constructed in 1821, and the modern estate was purchased by Hubert Perrodo in 1989, now managed by his daughter Nathalie. The wine is typically made up of at least 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, followed by slightly less Merlot and a small balance of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Soils here are primarily sandy gravel with small amounts of limestone.

Bin 8 has been crafted in the traditional Penfolds style. Ripe, balanced fruit flavours are supported by softly integrated oak resulting in an impressive, smooth red wine. Textured, plush tannins create a neat and tidy framework to house rich blackberry fruit spiced by derived vanilla pod. Barrel maturation has added a creamy texture and mouthfeel.