A true "Super Tuscan" Lamaione was first made in 1991 from Merlot grapes planted in the vineyard that carries it's name in the 1970's. With its marine clay-rich soils and south-western exposure, the Lamaione vineyard is located 300 metres above sea level. The grapes were carefully selected, hand-picked and placed in crates. Once at the cellar, the grapes were destemmed and sorted by hand. Fermentation took place at a controlled temperature in steel tanks. The wine was then aged for 24 months in 80% new French oak barriques, followed by further ageing period of 12 months in the bottle. The sunlight and heat during the year give the Lamaione wine extraordinary strength and richness. It has an intense and impenetrable ruby-red colour. The nose reveals wonderful hints of cherry jam and plum. Notes of rhubarb, graphite, dark chocolate, liquorice and roasted coffee are also intriguing. It is plush and well-rounded when tasted, dense while silky-smooth at the same time, the tannins and length are truly remarkable.

Petaluma Merlot is medium body with a brick red colour, the superbly perfumed bouquet is a tangle of marzipan, spice, plum and confectionery and is the best nose of the early Petalumas. On the palate, flavours of cherry, plum and spice emerge, with very good depth and complexity.

Two words come to mind when you mention great Australian Merlot. Jim Irivne. Jim's Grand Merlot is the benchmark of complex and elegant Merlot in Australia and his Eden Valley vineyards are the perfect place to produce this iconic wine.

Colour and Condition: Deep brick red hue; bright condition. Nose: A really youthful appeal, with an immediate impression of dark fruit aromas black berries, mulberries and black currants. A second viewing shows the beginnings Merlots darker side, with tar, leather and earth just starting to add complexity into the background. Palate: The classic Merlot palate, with rich, dark berry flavours like black jubes filling the front and mid palate. Firm tannin then takes over and gives the wine a linear, astringent but not too aggressive finish, which is juicy and concentrated.

The 2020 vintage of Chateau Puyblanquet from Bordeaux, France is a true expression of the terroir of the region. With a deep ruby red colour, this wine immediately catches the eye and invites you in for a taste. On the nose, aromas of ripe blackberries, plums, and dark cherries mingle with hints of cedar and tobacco. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-structured, with smooth tannins and a balanced acidity. Flavours of dark fruit, including blackcurrants and blackberries, dominate the palate, accompanied by subtle notes of vanilla and spice. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a satisfying warmth in the mouth. This 2020 vintage of Chateau Puyblanquet is a testament to the exceptional quality of the grapes and the skilled winemaking techniques of the château. A true delight for any wine lover.

The Mazzei Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2021 is a stunning representation of the Tuscan terroir. This bold and complex red wine is crafted by Marchesi Mazzei, a renowned winery based in Italy. In the glass, this vintage boasts a deep ruby hue with glints of purple, inviting the senses to explore further. On the nose, aromas of ripe black cherries, plums, and hints of spice intertwine with subtle notes of leather and tobacco. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture, revealing flavors of dark berries, cocoa, and a touch of earthiness. The tannins are well-integrated, providing a smooth and lingering finish. Overall, the Mazzei Ser Lapo Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG 2021 is a masterpiece that perfectly balances tradition and modernity, making it an excellent addition to any wine lover's collection.