91pt Barossa Merlot from the impressive Thorn-Clarke. "Attractively ripe and fragrant, the bouquet shows dark plum, floral, thyme, and nutmeg aromas, leading to a silky-smooth palate that's juicy and beautifully rounded. Delightfully composed and expressed with a lengthy, supple finish. 91pts" (Sam Kim, Wine Orbit). Thorn Clarke is one of the largest family-owned estate-based businesses in the Barossa, set up by David and Cheryl Clarke (née Thorn), The Sandpiper range is named after the migratory bird which visits the Thorn-Clarke vineyards annually from the northern hemisphere - something of a reminder of the tenacity and commitment which is required for long term viticulture.

A Gold, 92pt beauty. Château La Clarière is blessed with 50 different vineyard plots, all ideally situated on the superb limestone plateau from where both Saint-Emilion and Castillon’s finest wines hail. However, the grapes from the Enclos single vineyard, literally five metres from Saint-Emilion’s priciest Grands Crus Classés, have always been kept separate. It’s a vineyard surrounded by hedgerows, shrubs and dotted with trees – its most biodiverse; farmed organically too. All Merlot, carefully fermented on the estate, with regular plunge down and a year’s ageing in part new and part seasoned French oak barrels, it’s a very fine, velvety claret. Open early and preferably decant. It will make a very handsome partner to roast red meats or a cheeseboard.

Steeple Block is the answer to Merlot-lovers prayers – a heavenly, well-rounded red from McLaren Vale.

Bordeaux’s prestigious Médoc is renowned for producing some of the region’s finest reds. Château Vieux Gadet is a red wine crafted at an a third-generation family estate under the careful guidance of winemaker Thierry Trento. Awarded the rare title of ‘Artisan Cru’, reserved only for the smallest, hands-on châteaux, Vieux Gadet is a Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon blend of depth and elegance. Rich layers of ripe red fruit, warm spices and toasty notes unfold across smooth, silky tannins. It’s approachable now, yet structured enough to age beautifully. Pair alongside game, beef, lamb or aged cheeses – this is a true Médoc classic.