Sam Trimboli LOVES Durif. He calls it a “stunning little powerhouse grape that develops astounding complexity”. The numberplate on his car even sports the word ‘Durif’, that’s how highly he rates it. The grapes for this wine come from a small vineyard that Sam helped establish in the 1980s and is now at peak maturity.

First made in 1959, Penfolds Kalimna Shiraz is an icon in the field of warm-climate Shiraz. Always ripe, robust and generously flavoured. The Bin 28 is named after the Kalimna vineyard that was purchased back in 1945 and from which the original fruit was sourced from. Today, the Bin 28 is a great example of the Penfolds dedication to multi-region, multi-vineyard blending. The Barossa Valley will always remain an integral part of the Bin 28 blend providing rich, vibrant primary fruit flavours.

Deep and dense in the glass, with flashes of vibrant scarlet at the rim. Aromas of blackberry and cherry come through seamlessly, layered with complexity. The palate is fragrant and balanced, showing violets, redcurrant and darker black fruits, touched by herbs and a hint of chocolate. Fine Cabernet tannins carry through the Shiraz’s fruit sweetness, giving structure and lift. Youthful and vibrant, it’s an elegant and timeless blend from two of South Australia’s premier vineyards.

Rieslingfreak is the product of winemaker John Hughes obsession with Riesling matched with exceptional winemaking talent which translates into wines of exquisite purity and elegance. His home state of South Australia is blessed with two of the rare places where Riesling truly shines, and John has melded the generous floral aromatics and rich flavour of the Clare Valley with the fine and refreshing acidity of the Eden Valley Riesling to craft this generous, yet complex Riesling. A wine to drink now, but one that will also reward some cellaring.

With its generous aromas showing lovely varietal sweet plum, red cherry and savoury notes on the nose; the palate delivers a delicious cherry flavour complemented by a spicy oak touch.

An elegant cool-climate Shiraz with aromas of blackberry, plum, olive and subtle spice. The palate is vibrant, yet lacy, with refined notes of black fruits, violets and white pepper. The gentle tannins intertwine effortlessly with a blackcurrant fresh acidity and the light spice of considered French oak.Beyond the Wilderness, at the extremities of the earth, deep in the southern oceans lies a pristine land. Cool by prevailing westerlies whipped up by the Roaring Forties, this is Tasmania. Only 1% of this remarkable land is planted to vines which are producing some of the world’s most exciting new wines.

The Smidge St Brioc Fiano 2022 is a shining example of South Australian winemaking at its finest. This vintage from Smidge Wines is a true standout, with a pale straw colour that glistens in the glass. On the nose, aromas of ripe peach, apricot, and lemon zest mingle with subtle hints of white flowers and a touch of minerality. On the palate, the wine is crisp and refreshing, with zesty citrus flavours balanced by a creamy texture and a touch of salinity. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of juicy stone fruits. This Fiano is a true expression of its terroir, showcasing the unique characteristics of South Australia. Enjoy it now or cellar for a few years to watch it evolve into an even more complex and delightful wine.