Lethbridge Pinot Noir
Lethbridge are on the cutting edge of fresh and vibrant winemaking with Ray Nadeson at the helm. Winning praise and accolades across the country, Ray produces a Pinot Noir here that displays an intense bouquet of cherry and spice, which leads into a dark cherry, sweet earthy palate with its fine tannins.
Funaro Pile della Ciaula DOC
Intense ruby red in colour, with captivating purple hues, it has a full-bodied, persistent scent with hints of ripe berries, spices and airy notes of vanilla. It sweeps over the palate, complex, full, balanced and enveloping. Soft and elegant tannins.
Luke Lambert Syrah
Its fair to say Luke Lambert hasn't looked back since 'relocating' his Syrah to the Tibooburra vineyard. This southwest sloping site lies in the southeastern corner of the Valley, near Gembrook, and might be the coolest microclimate of the Yarra. The site is expertly managed by Greg Kerr, the grower who planted the vineyard in 2001. The soils here are considered very unusual for the Yarra, comprising a seam of black volcanic topsoil over yellow clay with a smattering of granite rock throughout. Furthermore, the quality of the clonal material in Tibooburra supplies Lambert with deeper and darker Syrah fruit that also has more depth and structure. This is what drew him to the site and a good chunk of the reason the Syrah has become a touchstone example of cool-climate Yarra Shiraz.
Allinda Limited Release Yarra Valley Syrah
Allinda is a tiny Yarra Valley estate, and you won't find their wines in too many places, because the quantities are so small. But when you do find them, make sure you stock up, because they are really wonderful. This sumptuous Syrah really impresses with medium to full bodied intense ripe flavour and natural acidity. Ripeness of fruit in the warmish 2016 February has lifted the flavour profile into the mulberry and plum zone so expect less white pepper than other Yarra Valley Syrahs. Allinda has kept it simple with healthy soils, healthy vines, some of the better old school practices, a dash of modern technique and a whole lotta good old winemaking sense. High-quality boutique wine with stacks of Gold wins!
Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon
Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon has a generous and beautifully structured palate, layered with dense fruits of the forest, ripe tannins and a persistent fruit finish. Taking all before it at the recent Dan Murphy's National Wine Show of Australia, this Xanadu Cabernet will be snapped up quickly!
Paringa Estate Pinot Noir
Paringa is one of Australia's best and most consistent Pinot producers. This wine shows superb varietal aromas of cherry, plum and spice, and the palate is long, textured and complex. With the ability to be cellared for the medium to long term, Lindsay McCall's Estate Pinot is a certainty to be included in any cellar of a great Pinot Noir lover.
Alain Graillot Syrah Morocco Syrocco
Gibson Reserve Shiraz
Gibson Wines is one of the reasons why we all love the Barossa Valley so much. Small family winery, ancient soils, hand-crafter wines all made by a true Barossa character, Rob Gibson. With his signature moustache and motorcyclists' leather waistcoat, Rob puts all his years of experience into every bottle. The Reserve Shiraz is grown from a single estate vineyard in Stockwell and displays aromas and flavours that are fresh and lively with juicy fruit tones that are hard to find in 2007. Amazing what can be achieved with rigorous fruit selection and detailed winemaking.
Guigal Côtes du Rhône
Guigal Côtes du Rhône has always been the beacon for quality in the southern Rhône. This is one Grenache blend you must get your hands on. An attractive nose of cinnamon, liquorice and wild herbs, the palate is medium-bodied and balanced with a spicy savoury mid-palate and clean finish.
Stonier Pinot Noir
Stonier produces one of the most consistent Pinots from the Mornington Peninsula. Attractive plum and cherry flavours are enhanced by some gamey undertones and smoky oak influence. Perfect with duck.