Without a doubt one of Bordeaux's most famous vineyards, Cheval Blanc lies on the border of Pomerol and is also easily the most important estate in St-Émilion. Uniquely a blend dominated by Cabernet Franc, Cheval Blanc's wines have a powerful bouquet which is spicy and rich which is followed by fruit that is soft, mellow and liquorous. Matched only by Pétrus in the realm of vigour and concentration, Cheval's exuberance is not to be missed. With this latest release, the 2009, the wines are bordering on immortal. A blend of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Franc, this super-smooth, velour textured and opulent red wine shows rambunctious flavours of raspberries, blueberries, liquorice and a smidge of menthol. Will be fascinating to watch this

Château Léoville-Las-Cases is classified as a 2nd Growth, but can rightfully claim to produce wines equal and superior to some 1st growths. Léoville's label (Grand Vin de Léoville du Marquis de Las Cases) doesn't mention the

While Chateau Latour might be proximate to the famed Leoville estate, Chateau Leoville-Las-Cases is individually distinguished for its own unique character, and regularly is called the best wine of St-Julien. Classic Las Cases wines show incredible perfume, a result of lower temperature fermentation and an adherence to around three quarters of their barrels being new oak. The 2010 is as always Cabernet Sauvignon dominant, and shows with elegance, finesse and yet a layered complexity that draws the drinker in. Potential for this wine is immense; a life of 30 to 40 years in cellar should be considered.

Spinifex Papillon is a vibrant and luscious red from the Baross Valley that is a blend of Grenache, Cinsault and Mataro. Made in the typical modern Australian mould, the Papillon is bright and aromatic with lifted cherry, red currant and spicy raspberry. A very perfumed wine with earthy flavours of beetroot and white pepper which lends itself to being a terrific food style wine with lovely acid structure and a medium weight.

Sangria is the ultimate summertime drink. With vibrant, aromatic fruit flavours and a refreshing, light weight palate, La Esencia is both delicious and crowd pleasing. This sangria can be served in a number of ways, but is best served with the addition of some fresh fruit like oranges, apples, limes and even pineapple. You can even add some lemonade and ginger ale for a bit of extra lift.

The McGuigan Black Label Red is an approachable, medium bodied style with a nice combination of ripe, soft fruit flavours and the perfect balance of tannin to provide some structure. Not only a great wine to have around great friends and family, but also at home when paired with a wide array of cuisine including barbecued meats and salads.

Although Bandol produces the most serious red wines in Provence, it still isn't a particularly well known appellation, and chances are most people haven't even heard of Bandol. This intriguing wine is a blend of Mourvèdre (80%) and a dash of Cinsault (15%) and old vine Carignan (5%).

Domaine Asmara Private Reserve Durif is a massive, full bodied wine that is totally opaque. Outstanding tannins structure with mouth watering mixed herbs and rip dark fruits luring in the back of the palate. Well balanced flavours and oak use. It will be a great cellaring candidate for the right cellar conditions.

This pleasingly rich and unusual blend of Grenache and Cabernet Franc from the Clare Valley offers a bouquet of ripe cherries and plums. The palate shows spicy fruit flavour and soft tannins.

Very pale salmon, some light red hues. Red fruits, raspberry, cranberry, a touch of liquorice, some light spice and earth. Pinot Noir is apparent on the front palate, with berries, fluffy talc and crystalline texture. The Grenache brings weight through the middle, a riot of red fruits and tarry spice. Mourvèdre fills the rear, with lovely fine extract framing the palate and adding length. A harmonious and very fine Minnow Rosé by Shadowfax: complex, dry and delicious.