Ludovic Roussillon is one of the top viticulteurs in Bordeaux’s Entre-Deux-Mers. He knows how to coax the very best out of his soils to get the most flavour in his grapes. Work hard in the vineyard and the wine almost makes itself, he says. We’ve worked with Ludovic for a number of years, enjoying both his red and his white from Château Le Coin. This is another wine from his vineyards – mostly Merlot, with a little Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon – all vinified to bring out the fruit's richness, supported by sleek tannins. Rethink Bordeaux with this supple, generous, rounded red. It’s already drinking really well, with or without food. Roast beef, full flavoured pasta dishes, charcuterie, cheese – this wine is very versatile.

"Outstanding vlaue" Cabernet with scores of 92 and 95pts. "This delivers a lot for a meagre tariff....a fine example, and further proof of how well the variety can perform in the region. 92pts" (Marcus Ellis, The Halliday Wine Companion). Huon Hooke calls it "... a very concentrated wine with density and power, fruit doing most of the talking, The palate is very lively, vibrant, driving and long, and promises much for the future. Cellaring recommended. Outstanding value, too! 95pts.” (Huon Hooke. The Real Review). From d’Arenberg’s Osbourne family – a founding member of Australia’s First Family of Australian Wines.

Superb, 2016 Single Vineyard Reserva Rioja from top ranking Bodegas La Emperatriz, that first won prizes for its wines in 1878 when it belonged to Empress Eugénie of France. Today brothers Eduardo and Victor Hernáiz own the impressive estate, comprising 101 hectares of high-altitude vineyards in the Rioja Alta. Many of their wines have been awarded over 90 points by Wine Advocate. With extensive vineyards, they have the luxury of using only estate-grown grapes and make a range of top-ranking wines. Rarely, however, do they make a Gran Reserva purely from this single, north-facing vineyard lying at 630 metres. The result is very slow-ripening grapes and a wine with superb structure, depth and impressive complexity. Only now is it opening out, revealing all its rich flavour. Open early – great with lamb.