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.

L’Epiphanie de Saint-Estèphe comes from a very fine estate in Bordeaux’s legendary St-Estèphe appellation in the northernmost part of the Médoc – one of only two Second Growths. (There are actually no First Growths in St-Estèphe, so this is pretty much top of the tree.) First Growth Château Lafite is just across a stream to the south, which gives you an idea of the hallowed terroir we’re talking about. We can’t reveal which estate this wine comes from, but we can tell you that two of its Grand Vins from the legendary 2009 & 2010 vintages were rated a perfect 100 points by the great Robert Parker – wines that sell for nearly $200 per bottle! It's compellingly aromatic – a seductive scent of violets and ripe red fruit. The luscious palate delivers concentrated cassis and plum, with touches of mineral and cherry on the long, sensuous, minerally, finish. It's a sublime example of the lavish St Estephes from this great estate, silky smooth, velvety, complex and long.

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.

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.

The La Capitelle De Baronarques Mouton Rothschild Estates Collection 2022 is a stunning representation of the Limoux region in France. The deep, ruby red colour of this wine immediately catches the eye, hinting at the rich and complex flavours within. On the nose, aromas of ripe black cherries, blackberries, and a subtle touch of oak are intertwined with earthy undertones. On the palate, this wine truly shines with its vibrant acidity and well-integrated tannins. The fruit flavours are joined by notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and a hint of spice, creating a harmonious and elegant experience. This vintage, produced by Domaine de Baronarques, showcases the true potential of Limoux and is a must-try for any wine enthusiast. Sip and savour this exceptional wine now, or cellar it for years to come to experience its full potential.

Located in the northern reaches of the Medoc., where breezes regulate temperatures during hot spells and allow fruit to maintain freshness, the vineyard is particularly adapted to growing Merlot grapes. In perfect harmony with the estate's terroir. Merlot is key in creating a smooth, supple, seductive wine that is fruity yet pure.