Deep ruby red in the glass, this approachable Margaret River blend opens with lifted aromas of cedar spice, mint, cocoa, mocha and dried sage. The palate is generous and fruit-driven, showcasing ripe raspberry, redcurrant and red liquorice flavours layered with subtle chocolate and baking spice notes. Fine, powdery tannins and balanced acidity provide structure and freshness, while earthy undertones add complexity. Smooth, medium-bodied and highly drinkable, it finishes with lingering red fruit and gentle savoury spice.

Woodlands Cabernet Merlot is one of the regions best examples. The Watson brothers are the custodians of a family heritage in Margaret River that continues to this day. The Cabernet Merlot has attractive and complex aromas of dark berry and plum supported by well integrated vanillin oak. The palate shows similar characters with outstanding length of flavour and perfect balance. Drink now or cellar short term.

Regarded by many as a candidate for wine of the 2009 Bordeaux vintage. A huge accolade indeed for La Mission Haut-Brion considering the quite phenomenal wines being released. The 2009 can boast a colour that is almost impenetrable and a exciting bouquet of blackberry, truffles and spicy earth. The concentration of the palate is something to behold itself. A vinosity that is hard to find elsewhere, the flavours in the mouth follow on from the nose in nice order, yet the sheer power of the wine quite extraordinary. Layers of flavours continue throughout the palate and continue well into its length. Will no doubt be in short supply as all clamour to get a piece of this Bordeaux masterpiece.

Ripe and generous, the leafy, minty characters of Cabernet are complemented by the softness and plummy fruit coming from the Merlot. A nice touch of sweet oak completes the picture.

The ability to source fruit away from their home base in the Hunter is paying dividends for Brokenwood. This Cricket Pitch is a ripe, fully flavoured red blend - this is the ideal BBQ companion.

Brands Laira is an iconic winery, nestled in the heart of the famed terra rossa strip of the Coonawarra region in South Australia. Steeped in heritage, the Laira Vineyard was planted back in 1893 and is one of the oldest working blocks in the region. Brands Laira offers a range of elegant yet richly flavoured premium wines from this distinct region

The Smith & Hooper Cabernet Merlot is a harmonious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot displaying aromas of red berries, eucalypt and a hint of vanilla. Flavours of mulberries, cherry and blackcurrants fill out the smoothly textured palate.

The typical Margaret River Cabernet characters of red berries and leafiness are neatly balanced with the softer, plummy notes of Merlot.