Mourvedre, otherwise known as Monastrell or Mataro, is rarely seen as a straight varietal in Australia. Here, it is most famous as a component of the trinity of Grenache, Shiraz, Mourvedre (GSM). On its own fully ripened Mourvedre can be a rich and flavoursome red. Around the world straight Mourvedres are gaining an appreciative audience with their distinctive dark fruited meatiness. This wine is a French demonstration of the Mourvedre grape's capabilities. Grown on calcerous soil on the warm Mediterranean coast, the Maison de la Villette Mourvedre immediately impresses with its intensity of colour and dark, spicy fruit aromas. On the palate, it is very long and full-bodied with well-balanced tannins. The finish gives an impression of velvety smoothness. It boasts loads of character and power! Ideal with grilled meats or aged cheese.

This Pinot gris by Hugel et Fils is rich and rounded, although still dry, it is ideal with terrines, white meats and fish in sauce. Of all the Alsace varieties, Tokay Pinot Gris has the greatest ageing potential.

Dopff is a traditional Alsacian producer of quality table and sparkling wines. This fine stylish Riesling is delicately perfumed with both honeysuckle and citrus aromas. A tight palate follows with just the right amount of sweetness to give a textured mouthfeel with green apple and lime flavours. The finish is crisp, clean and racing. A bargain Riesling for those new to the variety and a steal for those who already know the beguiling beauty Riesling is.

Dopff is a historical Alsace producer of quality table and sparkling wines. Such a connection with the terroir of the region can be seen in this lively and exciting Gewurztraminer that displays lychee and rose petals that fill the nose. The palate is classically varietal with hints of Turkish delight and a long spicy finish. Quite simply the perfect wine match to chilli-driven spicy Asian cuisine.

Produced from old hillside vineyards in the Herault valley in the south of France, this polished blend from Paul Mas is smoothly textured on the palate with dark berry and sweet spice flavours. Outstanding value.

Dopff Pinot Gris Reserve from the famous Alsace region has crafted a supple and full bodied pinot gris deserving of the commendations from respected wine makers. Charming palate with soft, delicious flavours of banana, honey and camomile. Pale yellow with citrus notes on the nose. Long full finish.

Taking its name from the Capuchin friars who arrived in 1619, the Clos is protected from winds by the surrounding hills and by the walls enclosing it. The soils here consist of sand, alluvial pebbles and granitic gravel and this produces a Riesling as zippy, zesty and mineral-driven as it is fleshy. White peach, green and yellow citrus along with melon, kaffir lime and lemongrass notes. Lovely texture and a vibrant, fresh finish.

Château Haut-Brion was the one and only estate outside of the Médoc and Sauternes to be bestowed 1st Growth status in the original classification of 1855. That reputation and standing has withstood over 150 years and can be tasted in what can only be described as 'blockbuster' white wine. A blend of 62% Sauvignon Blanc and 38% Semillon, this wine should be held up as the flag-bearer for all Bordeaux Blancs. Mind blowing texture is the trademark of 2009 along with superb flavours and aromas of lemon scented cream, orange skin and a touch of lanolin. The ageing propensity of this wine is not be underestimated and will last in a good cellar for at least 30 years.

Domaine de Chevalier uses traditional methods when making their flavoursome white blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Fermentation occurs in oak casks and is then aged for 18th in oak, some of which is new. This practice was abandoned by many in Graves, only to be (rightfully) regenerated to allow wines of substance and character to be produced once again. Chevalier's Blanc is a wine that is taut and restrained that opens up over a six to eight year period to reveal a wine of supreme delicacy.