Rich, full-bodied Gold, 95pt Cabernet rule-breaker from Navarra. We worked with the late Tony Barrero for decades. He became a lifelong friend and was a talented winemaker who always managed to get hold of terrific grapes to make delicious Spanish wines. He's handed those attributes to his daughter, Maitena, also a winemaker that we know well and where we discovered this irresistible rich red. The grapes all come from old, arid vineyards, overshadowed by statuesque stone pines. Both vines and trees benefit from the cool, down draught from the Moncayo mountains, producing Cabernet grapes with delicious depth of ripeness and velvety tannins. 16 months in French oak barrels provides more layers of richness and power. Decant early if you can and serve with weighty dishes – roast meats or casserole.

95pt, Great Value Cassis and dark chocolate Margaret River Cab.from 5-Red-Star-rated Wise Wines, owned by Ron Wise and where Larry Cherubino is a consultant and works with an experienced team. “An elegant style that doesn’t forfeit flavour or depth to get there. Expect cassis, mulberries, lots of herbs, black olive and cedary oak infusing the more mid-weighted palate. Fine tannins match the acidity to lengthen the finish. 95pts, Great Value” (Jane Faulkner, The Halliday Wine Companion)... “a remarkably plush and polished Cabernet from this cooler vintage." (Ray Jordan)

Cru Bourgeois is a prestigious term used for Bordeaux reds from estates outside the 1855 classification that consistently deliver wines of outstanding quality and value. Estates are reviewed every five years to retain the standing. This classic blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a dash of Petit Verdot, is one of the top Cru Bourgeois buys. It’s from an estate family owned since 1870, located in Cussac-Fort-Médoc, close to the iconic Bordeaux appellations of Margaux and St-Julien. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels (30% new), and delivers with blackcurrant, plum and cedar spice, supple tannins, freshness and a long, elegant finish. It’s finely structured, and offers sheer Bordeaux charm. Certainly approachable now, but with the potential to age gracefully for a decade or more.