Château Ausone Saint-Émilion
Named after the Roman poet Ausonius in the 18th century, Château Ausone still sits on a site scattered with Roman ruins to this day. In 1976, Pascal Delbeck took control and Ausone's reputation has soared. Now with 'flying consultant' Michel Rolland at the helm of the winemaking team, the wines have become ultra-rich, stylish and veluptuous. The 2009 in particular is a wine of true immense proportions. The vintage conditions were shining on those in Saint-Émilion and the opulence of the estate is balanced by the fine structure and ripe tannins of the 09 which will see the wine further develop for the next 40 years. Unfortunatley only 1,200 cases were made and availability will be extremely limited.
Château Angélus Saint-Emilion
A very important estate in St-Émilion, Château Angélus was acquired by the de Boüard de Laforest family in 1924 and merged with the previously owned Château Mazerat. The apostrophe was dropped in 1989 and is now simply known as Angélus. The wines are characterised by a fabulous texture offered by the high component of Cabernet Franc with the plump softness added by the Merlot creating a wine of pleasing plushness.
Château Cheval Blanc Saint-Émilion
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 Cos d'Estournel Saint-Estèphe
Cos d'Estournel remains today one of the true icons of Bordeaux, and the trademark of Saint Estèphe. With it's pagoda like house (as it's one of the rare Bordeaux's without a Château) it is a must visit for all travelling along the route des châteaux. Always of great reputation, the wines soared in esteem throughout the tenure of Bruno Prats through 1971 to 1998 and continue to this day with their Cabernet Sauvignon based wines of extreme purity and elegance. The 2009 vintage will be highly sought after with the conditions in the left bank region at their very best. Showing a more riper, plump fruit nature than the usual masculine, long-lived trademark, this years Cos will be quick out the door.
Pierro LTC Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
If you want to try the benchmark in this style then look no further than Pierro. A clean and concentrated palate of lemon sherbet and gooseberry with a hint of oak influence. LTC stands for 'little touch of Chardonnay' which adds the right amount of palate weight and complexity.
Yellow Tail Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
Fresh citrus notes on the nose followed by hints of passionfruits on the nose - This makes for a great summer time wine with light and easy meals.
Domaine Des Grosses Pierres Sancerre
From the spiritual home of Sauvignon Blanc, Sancerre, in France's Loire Valley comes this brilliantly expressive aromatic white from Domaine Des Grosses Pierres. Great floral notes on the nose with a nicely balanced palate of minerals, quartz and lingering ripe citrus fruits. This subtle Sauv Blanc is perfect for light meals and delicate Asian cuisine.
Bowler's Run Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
The Bowler's Run Semillon Sauvingon Blanc is a refreshing blend that puts on full displays flavours of zesty lemon and gooseberry flavours with a clean, crisp finish. Always been a warm favourite here at Dan Murphy's due to its extreme value-for-money which means it is perfect for everyday drinking or in party situations.
Fraser Gallop Semillon Sauvignon Blanc
Fraser Gallop Semillon Sauvignon Blanc is partially barrel fermented combining the strengths of Semillon & Sauvignon Blanc to deliver an aromatic wine of strong citrus & grassy characters, tropical fruits, complexity and wonderful balance. It comes from the talented hands of Clive Otto.
Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon
Cape Mentelle Sauvignon Blanc Semillon is delicate yet full, the palate is distinctively lemon and lime with subtle star anise, lemongrass and clove. Richness and weight are balanced with fresh acidity, giving direction and finesse.