Warramunda Estate's Merlot 2021 using fruit from vines planted in 2015 from their Coldstream Vineyard is, as Philip Rich writes in The Halliday Wine Companion: "An impressive merlot from such young vines, this opens with aromas of damson plum, blackcurrants, lifted florals and just a hint of cedar. Medium bodied with persistent, even tannins, this elegant wine can be enjoyed now and over the next five to seven years at least. 93pts.” Sam Kim Wine Orbit loves its "…beautifully rounded palate offering fine texture and grainy tannins.93pts" and Jeni Port, WinePilot agrees and encourages people to try it: "“Yes, it’s Merlot. Yes, it’s flying solo without a safety net (aka Cabernet). Try and cast the usual Australian drinker concerns about the grape aside and give it a go. The winemaker clearly has confidence, you should, too. You won’t be disappointed. It’s a beaut, medium in body with plenty of elegance and aromatic energy. Typical Yarra Valley plushness here brings a lovely depth of flavour highlighting rose, raspberry, black cherry, gentle vanillin oak spice with a touch of leafiness. Beautifully composed with fine tannins in total unison. Love the sprig of dried herbs, pepper and anise on the finish that keeps things rolling on. 93pts” The Magdziarz family bought Warramunda in 2027 and have built themselves a solid reputation using biodynamic viticulture – with a deep respect for the surrounding landscape and a vision for terroir-driven wines, now made by daughter Olivia Zak-Magdziarz.

One of the most expensive Bordeaux wines - and indeed, one of the priciest anywhere - Le Pin is a surprisingly recent arrival on the global stage, with its first vintage having been produced just decades ago in 1979. Originally priced at a modest 700 francs, the praise garnered by the 1982 vintage propelled Le Pin into the global limelight, with sales from that point on par with - or exceeding - those of First Growth Bordeaux wines. An exotic style of Bordeaux, Le Pin possesses a resplendent, lavish mouth-feel with intensely ripe fruit aromas and hints of smoke on the palate.

This is an exceptional effort for the vintage. There are plenty of sumptuous, velvety and heady aromatics, but what sets the wine apart is its delicacy on the palate. It is part of the wine’s mystery that it can combine these two seemingly contradictory elements yet emerge so fully formed. The finish is complete and very long indeed; here, the wine’s complexity comes to the fore, revealing silky plum, cool earth and iron ore notes. The progress made here in recent years is commendable and heartwarming. This is another superb wine in a run of very successful vintages. Château La Gaffelière wines have a proven track record for aging gracefully. The 2022 vintage is no exception. With its balanced structure and refined tannins, this wine has the potential to evolve and develop complex nuances over the years. It presents an opportunity to experience the evolution of a truly exceptional Bordeaux.

The 2014 Chateau La Cabanne from Pomerol, France is a true gem from this esteemed wine region. A blend of predominantly Merlot and Cabernet Franc, this wine exudes elegance and complexity. On the nose, aromas of ripe dark fruits, such as blackberries and plums, mingle with hints of tobacco and earthy notes. The deep, ruby red colour entices the senses, promising a rich and full-bodied palate. On the palate, the wine delivers on its promise with layers of black fruit flavors, balanced by well-integrated tannins and a touch of spice. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a satisfying impression. This 2014 vintage is a testament to the excellence of Chateau La Cabanne, showcasing their expertise in producing exceptional wines. A must-try for any wine connoisseur.

This limited release Merlot is produced from a 5 star Halliday rated winery, Parker Coonawarra Estate. The wine reflect the stylistic approach to creating beautiful wines from the rich terra rossa soils of the Coonawarra region. The Merlot combines dark cherries and plums, dusted with a hint of tobacco. This wine is savoury and lush with persistence and a fine, silky finish.