Red

Region: Argentina, Mendoza, Agrelo, Luján de Cuyo 

Grape Variety: 100% Malbec

Winemaking Process: Hand-harvested. Fermentation at a maximum temperature of 82°F-86°F (28°C-30°C). Maceration lasted approximately 15 days.

Aging: 5 months in French oak

Tasting Notes: A Malbec of a soft texture, great body and silky tannins. On the nose, it displays aromas of red berries and a subtle hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is pleasant and it has a very good structure.

Food Pairing: Grilled meats, pasta with red sauce, strong cheeses.


Awards:

Mundus Vini 2020 - Silver

Wines of Argentina 2011 - Silver

Wines of Argentina 2010 - Gold

Region: Italy, Sambuca Di Sicilia AG

Grape Variety: Nero d`Avola

Background: The Zabu wines are made from grapes cultivated in the noble wine region of Sicily. It is not without reason that this place is known as the gift of God. The Sicilian Island is the biggest in the Mediterranean region. The wine territory of Sicily not only includes this island but also the islands of Aeolia and Pantelleria. Close to 107000 hectares of land are planted with vines in this territory, making it an integral part of Italy’s wine history.

Tasting Notes: A soft, supple wine made in a modern style. This wine is deep ruby red in colour. It is fresh and unoaked. The plummy flavours of this wine are preserved by the wine-making.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2023 - Gold

Mundus Vini 2022 - Silver

Mundus Vini 2021 - Silver

Lyon International Wine Competition 2020 - Gold

Berlin Wine Trophy 2018 - Gold

Korea Wine Challenge 2018 - Silver

Lyon International Wine Competition 2017 - Gold

Region: Argentina, Mendoza

Grape Variety: Malbec 

Tasting Notes: A glass-coating opaque purple colour, it sports an alluring nose of toasty oak, mineral, liquorice, lavender, exotic spices, and assorted black fruits. Dense, rich, and voluptuous on the palate, this is a full-bodied beauty.

Food Pairing: Hard and smoked cheeses. Spicy or hot preparation, especially those with pepper. Grilled vegetables and funghi. Red meats over an open fire.

Vegetarian

Region: Italy, Colonel, Anlaran, Controguerra, Rose Garden, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Montepulciano

Background: Vineyards are located within the townships of Colonnella, Ancorano and Controguerra and cover a total of 25 hectares (nearly 62 acres).

Winemaking Process: Vinification begins with soft pressing and de-stalking with maceration on skins and fermentation for twenty days. Malolactic fermentation takes place in American barrique and aging continues for six months.

Tasting Notes: Very deep, brilliant ruby with purple reflections, the bouquet shows excellent intensity and richness, with notes of ripe red fruit, amaretto cookies, marzipan and sweet spices. Mellow, flavourful and complex on the palate, with smooth, velvety tannins, outstanding freshness and balance.

Food Pairing: Ideal pairings are robust first courses, cold cuts and salami, particularly the excellent varieties to be found in the Abruzzo region, as well as roasts and stews.

Awards:

Mundus Wines 2021 - Silver Medal

Sakura Awards 2021 - Silver Medal

Korea Wine Challenge 2020 - Silver Medal

Luca Maroni 2020 - 94 points

750ML

Contains Sulphites

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Tasting Notes: A deep and inky red in colour, Dry River Shiraz displays a nose of smoky rich fruits with a touch of mint. Smooth and rich on the palate with spicy flavours of luscious dark berry fruits, the balanced tannins help to deliver a tremendously concentrated finish.

Food Pairing: Serve at room temperature and try parterning with spicy dishes such as Mexican fajitas or Cajun Chicken (Recommended by Kingsland)

VEGAN

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Tasting Notes: Deep and inky in colour this wine displays a nose of rich ripe plum and blackcurrant flavours with a touch of mint. These grapes are picked at optimum ripeness and blended to create an approachable soft and fruity wine. Smooth and full bodied on the palate with spicy flavours of dark berried fruit, velvety tannins and a long lingering finish.

Food Pairing: Pair this wine with spicy culinary delights like sizzling Mexican fajitas or zesty Cajun chicken.

VEGAN

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: A family-owned boutique winery producing premium Barossa Valley wines. Ben Glaetzer makes unique, elegant wines which are treated as classics. Ben has previously won the Qantas Young Winemaker of the Year and in 2005, he was inducted as the youngest ever member of the Barons of the Barossa, a special Wine Fraternity of industry personalities.

Tasting Notes: The colour is deep inky red with purple hues. An explosion of brooding dark tones with bright cassis and coffee bean hints. Subtle richness with flavours of dark plum and blackberry intermingled with dark chocolate and dried spice. Generous yet restrained tannin provides exceptional palate length and persistence.

Awards:

Robert Parker 2023 Wine Advocate Review Erin Larkin - 92 Points: Glaetzer Bishop 2021 - “The 2021 Bishop Shiraz is pristine, supple and concentrated. There are layers of mulberry, raspberry and salted liquorice (red liquorice, too) in the mouth, shaped by fine, pliable tannins. It is bendy like high-jump poles. This is really great value for money. It is reliably high quality, delivering a modern, satisfying Barossa experience. What more do you want?  Drink Date 2023 – 2031”

Robert Parker 2022 Wine Advocate Review Erin Larkin - 92 Points: Glaetzer Bishop 2020: “This 2020 Bishop Shiraz is a saturating and pure example of Barossa Shiraz, from a warm, compacted and low yielding vintage. The wine in the glass is the very essence of Barossa, with red, earthy tannins, spicy/toasty oak and a fruit profile that spans red, purple and black. Really well done. Delicious. Drink Date 2022 – 2032.”

Robert Parker 2021 Wine Advocate Review Joe Czerwinski - 91 Points – Glaetzer Bishop 2019: “The 2019 Bishop Shiraz is all Shiraz and all from the Ebenezer district of the northern Barossa Valley. Aged almost exclusively in second, third and fourth use oak (mostly French), it features slight herbal overtones to the black cherry and black olive notes. It’s medium to full-bodied on the palate, supple, generous and reasonably concentrated, folding in hints of peppery spice and mocha shadings on the velvety, mouthwatering finish.”

VEGAN

Region: Australia, Langhorne Creek

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: A collaboration of industry veterans Ben Glaetzer, Scott Collet, Grant Tilbrook and Nick Keukenmeester who have developed Heartland into an award-winning winery, since producing the first vintage in 2001. They embrace the best Australian fruits and create wines of balance and texture with a uniquely Australian identity.

Tasting Notes: The deep colour gives a clue to the concentration of aromas and flavours to follow. Dark cherry and blackberry fruit dominate the nose with undercurrents of black liquorice and pepper. The palate brings to mind a berry compote enriched by elusive hints of spice. Directors’ Cut Shiraz is famous for its poise and balance and this vintage is no exception.

Reviews:

Rating 94 James Halliday Wine Companion, July 26, 2014: "Thick oak and thick dark fruit. Shoot first, ask questions later. Coconut, chocolate, mint and toast notes are slathered on saturated blackberry and plum. Tannin is not impeccable but it roars through the wine with impressive force. Big-boned, big-bodied wine."

Rating 4.5/5 Tony Love's TOP 100 Wines, The Advertiser Special Edition, July 19, 2014: "From older vineyards in a crackingly good regional vintage, this shows a bit of oak, but it's very good French wood, adding pepper, anise and nutmeg-like spices to accentuate the shiraz aromatics with earthy and mineral layers also in play. Flavour, flavour, flavour - delicious, intense and sophisticated."

VEGAN

Region: Australia, Langhorne Creek

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: A collaboration of industry veterans Ben Glaetzer, Scott Collet, Grant Tilbrook and Nick Keukenmeester who have developed Heartland into an award-winning winery, since producing the first vintage in 2001. They embrace the best Australian fruits and create wines of balance and texture with a uniquely Australian identity.

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby colour. Aromas of freshly crushed berries stand out, supported by cinnamon and fennel. An ample palate of bright fruit is complimented by solid tannins with a fine, long finish.

Food Pairing: This Australian Cabernet is the ideal red wine to accompany pasta, short roasted beef and hearty ragouts.

Vegan

Region: Italy, Tenuta Cantalupo in Notaresco, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Tasting Notes: There is massive fruit concentration on the nose which is utterly gorgeous, rich and ripe and has the merest hint of oak. Dark, dense purple colour. Full bodied, smooth sweet mouthfeel and very ripe flavours, huge concentration and super rich palate, the essence of Montepulciano. Great purity of fruit and silky texture. Garnet red. Intense and persistent, spicy (tobacco and jam), aromas of licorice, fruity, a little ethereal. A full bodied wine, soft and balanced. Intense and persistent.

Food Pairing: This wine is recommened to be paired with pizza, pastas with tomato sauce and hard cheeses.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold Medal

Frankfurt International Trophy 2021 - Gold Medal

Region: Italy, Ortona, San Salvo, Pollutri, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Montepulciano

Background: Velvety smooth Gold Medal Italian Red, acclaimed by the world’s top wine writers. Hugh Johnson called this fabulous Fantini; “the hearty, ripe, really warming wine that Chianti so often fails to be.” while US Supremo Robert Parker hailed it “one to buy by the car-load!”

Tasting Notes: A ruby red colour with garnet reflections. Intense and persistent fragrance, fruity (red fruit, prunes and cherries) with vanilla essence. Well-bodied, tannic and well-balanced, rather intense and persistent and ready to drink. Best served with good salami, savoury first courses, meat and cheese.

Food Pairing: Excellent with all the typical courses of Italian traditional cooking. It matches well with risotto, pasta and pork.

Awards:

Luca Maroni 2023 - 91 points

Frankfurt International Trophy 2022 - Gold Medal

Region: Italy, Ortona, San Salvo, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Sangiovese

Tasting Notes: This wee Italian red is utterly dripping in dark cherries with notes of strawberry and earth in support. Rich and juicy in texture it has a nice grip in the tannin and a sexy underlying Italianness. Deliciously soft, cherry-scented Sangiovese from the great Farnese Estate. Full of enticing cherry, plum and violet aromas and a silky mouthful with layers of lip-staining bramble and cherry fruit.

Awards:

Luca Maroni 2023 - 95 points

Frankfurt International Trophy 2022 - Gold Medal

Winemaker, Filippo, clinched a top trophy in Tuscany in 2003, knocking several much more expensive contenders off the podium and his 2004 followed suit with a 'Gran Menzione' at Vin Italy; Italy's most prestigious showcase.

Farnese Fantini Sangiovese has won the Regional International Wine challenge Trophy Dark red. Bitter chocolate, dried herbs and sweet smoky oak on the nose, the sweetness coming through in the jammy palate where chocolate-coated dried cherries come to mind. Incredibly juicy with a firm, slightly herbal, savoury oak backbone that brings it all into balance. Attractive bottle presentation adds to this exciting package.

Region: France, Beaujolais

Grapes Variety: Gamay

Tasting Notes: Aromas of strawberry, violet, cinnamon, red currant, and peony, releasing fleshy. Well-built in flavours that are discreetly spicy and a good length in the mouth. It is worth leaving the bottles to age for 3 years for the nuances of vanilla and spice to fill out.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with cured meatsa, pasta and dishes that contain veal, port and poultry.

Region: New Zealand, Marlborough

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: This wine needs a few minutes in glass first to relax and begin to open up – then - a range of cherry, sweet cranberry and freeze dried raspberry aromas – young, forward, generous; a touch of milk chocolate followed by sweet oak with smoky edges ensue. Smooth, soft and generous. The palate is filled with flavours of raspberry and dark cherry then a little more milk chocolate followed by sweet oak and oak spice then a hint of light dried herbs. The finish is juicy and quite long – in short a very tasty wine. Supple and lithe, this pinot presents dark fruit flavours mingled with fine tannins and subtle oak spice. The concentrated silky velvet finish and balance of acid and fruit are testament of the blend of these clones from this wonderful site.

Awards:

International Wine Challenge 2024 - Silver

Mundus Vini 2024 - Silver

International Wine Challenge 2023 - Silver

Mundus Vini 2023 - Gold

The Global Masters 2023 - Gold

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2022 - Silver

The National Wine Awards of Aotearoa New Zealand 2022 - Silver

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: In 1842 a 32-year-old Blacksmith, Christian Auricht, arrived from Prussia with his wife and four children. He settled in the new village of Langmeil and established a forge in what was to become a thriving trading post. His original smithy remains to this day and is a feature of the winery’s heritage setting.

Tasting Notes: Medium to deep crimson with purple hues. A rich and lifted nose of blueberry, blackcurrant and black olive, with a hint of cedar, liquorice and sweet spices adding to the complexity. Bright and rich berry fruits coat the palate and combine with brambly spice, hints of black olive and liquorice. Full-bodied with velvety, fine-grained tannins adding to the structure which flows through the long, fruity and spicy finish.

Food Pairing: This wine is perfect with heart meat dishes and cheese and is guaranteed to impress.

Awards:

Vintage 2020

Jamessuckling.com - Ned Goodwin MW 2023 - 91 Points

The Gobal Cabernet Masters - Drinks Business 2023 - Gold Medal

Vegetarian & Vegan

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: The Barossa is famous for its viticulture, history and winemaking dating back to the 1840s. At its heart is the Valley Floor, a highly-prized strip of viticultural land which is the very foundation and forms the essence of this wine. A true taste of the Barossa.

Langmeil’s history dates back to 1842 and the winery now draws on Barossa’s cultural beginnings and combines it with world-class winemaking. Its flagship, Freedom Shiraz, comes from what is believed to be the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, dating back to 1843. Old Barossan vines are a trademark of the winery, as are Chief Winemaker, Paul Lindner’s minimal intervention techniques.

Aging: 15% new American oak, 85% seasoned American and French oak hogsheads. Twenty-four months spent in oak.

Tasting Notes: Medium to deep crimson with purple hues. Rich and lifted aromas of Satsuma plum, mulberry and floral notes mingle with sweet spice, chocolate and savoury hints. Rich, plumy fruit and sweet spice balanced by soft velvety tannins. A complex, medium to full bodied wine showing hints of mocha, bramble and vanilla which flow through to the lengthy, fruity, peppery and spicy finish.

Food Pairing: Stir-fried beef with basil, American style slow cooked ribs, Sunday roast, and mature cheddar.

Awards:

Halliday Wine Companion 2024 - Dave Brookes 2023 - 91 Points

Global Syrah Masters - Drinks Business 2023 - Gold Medal

Vinous.com - Angus Hughson 2023 - 90 Points

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: Langmeil’s history dates back to 1842 and the winery now draws on Barossa’s cultural beginnings and combines it with world-class winemaking. Its flagship, Freedom Shiraz, comes from what is believed to be the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, dating back to 1843. Old Barossan vines are a trademark of the winery, as are Chief Winemaker, Paul Lindner’s minimal intervention techniques.

Tasting Notes: Intense, with sharply focused red plum, raspberry and roasted red pepper flavours that race over refined tannins and persist into the long, vivid finish. Very full bodied and powerful in the mouth, the rich is offset by very crisp acidity and a medium to firm level of grainy tannins.

Food Pairing: This Shiraz pairs well with rabbit stifado, pork or duck roast, mushroom risotto, roasted vegetable tartlet or a matured cheese platter.

Awards:

Robert Parker Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski 2021 - 95 Points

The Real Review - Huon Hooke 2021 - 95 Points

Global Syrah Masters 2020 - Gold

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 

Background: Langmeil’s history dates back to 1842 and the winery now draws on Barossa’s cultural beginnings and combines it with world-class winemaking. Its flagship, Freedom Shiraz, comes from what is believed to be the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, dating back to 1843. Old Barossan vines are a trademark of the winery, as are Chief Winemaker, Paul Lindner’s minimal intervention techniques.

Tasting Notes: Deep crimson with purple hues. Lifted blackcurrant and blueberry aromas entwine with biscuity French oak, hints of liquorice and savoury, black olive notes. Bright, juicy and rich blue fruits flow onto the palate which is medium to full-bodied. Briary spice, black olive and cedary hints add to the mix with a touch of new oak sweetness and silky tannins to add complexity to the fruity and velvety finish.

Food Pairing: This Cabernet Sauvignon is paired well with dishes that contain beef, lamb and poultry.

Awards:

Robert Parker Wine Advocate - Joe Czerwinski 2021 - 94 Points

Global Cabernet Sauvignon Masters 2021 - Gold

The Real Review - Huon Hooke 2021 - 93 Points

Vegan

Region: France, Beaujolais

Grapes Variety: Gamay

Tasting Notes: An exceptional Beaujolais of great weight and intensity, retaining the classic fresh raspberry and cherry fruit flavours synonymous with the region. If Fleurie is the queen of Beaujolais then the silky Moulin a Vent is the king. So vital, so energetic, this wine will bowl you over.

Food Pairing: This red wine pairs well with veal, pork, poultry dishes, pasta dishes and cured meats.

Tasting Notes: Well-made wine from an excellent negociant. Soft and round with overtones of red fruits. A good, easy drinking wine and a very good introduction to the charms of Burgundy.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with main dishes, red meats, poultry, charcuterie and prepared meat.

Region: New Zealand, Marlborough

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Background: Renowned winemaker Brent Marris has crafted a complex yet harmonious Pinot Noir from the Waihopai River, which comprises three distinct variations in soil structure. Hand-picked and aged for 12 months in French oak, this is a classic, rounded Marlborough Pinot. He's a rugged southerner, very tall and lives in the heart of wine country. Do we have your attention ladies? We're talking about The Ned - the 909m high peak that overlooks part of our biggest wine growing region of course.  In fact winemaker Brent Marris (formerly of Wither Hills and Oyster Bay) spent his youth hiking and biking in the area, thus his affection for the big fella.

Tasting Notes: A delicious medium bodied style Marlborough Pinot, loaded with dark, spicy berry fruit flavours.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2024 - Silver

Sommeliers Choice Awards 2024 - Silver

International Wine Challenge 2023 - Silver

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2023 - Silver

The Global Masters 2023 - Gold

International Wine Challenge 2022 - Silver

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2022 - Gold

Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold

Region: Chile, Maipo

Grape Variety: Merlot

Background: Santa Alicia have been producing wines in the heart of Maipo Valley since 1954. With grapes from three select communes, a state-of-the-art winery, and judicious use of the finest American and French oak barrels, we believe the wines represent the highest price/quality ratio in Chile. In 2007, they were named Chilean Wine Producer of the Year for "best overall results from a Chilean winery" in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. Santa Alicia possesses a very talented team of winemakers. Leading the team, is David González, with more than 30 years of experience. David contributes, together with his philosophy of perfection, extensive knowledge and the dedication of an artisan. For him, a glass of wine goes beyond the sensory pleasure, and turns into a bridge of communication between the art of creating a mythical concoction and its final consumers.

Tasting Notes: Violet red, limpid and intense. Floral aromas and notes of wild blackberries and raspberries combined with notes of coconut and toast. A ripe and fruity wine of medium volume.

Awards:

Sakura Wine Award 2015 - Gold Medal

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2015 - Silver Medal

James Suckling Tasting 2015 - 88 Points

Region: Chile, Maipo

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: Santa Alicia have been producing wines in the heart of Maipo Valley since 1954. With grapes from three select communes, a state-of-the-art winery, and judicious use of the finest American and French oak barrels, we believe the wines represent the highest price/quality ratio in Chile. In 2007, they were named Chilean Wine Producer of the Year for "best overall results from a Chilean winery" in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. Santa Alicia possesses a very talented team of winemakers. Leading the team, is David González, with more than 30 years of experience. David contributes, together with his philosophy of perfection, extensive knowledge and the dedication of an artisan. For him, a glass of wine goes beyond the sensory pleasure, and turns into a bridge of communication between the art of creating a mythical concoction and its final consumers.

Tasting Notes: Lively, bright and intense cherry red. Fruit-driven nose, ripe cherries, figs, ripe plums with hints of spices like cinnamon, clove and vanilla. Good structure in the mouth, with smooth, round tannins. Long persistence.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with beef dishes, lamb, poultry and game.

Award:

Hong Kong International Wine & Spirit Competition 2015 - Silver Medal

Tasting Notes: The wine is well-rounded, yet with quite a powerful attack of blended red and black fruit medley dominated by black currants, blackberry sorbet and red fruit cobbler, along with warm, slightly phenolic notes of ripe cherries and sun-kissed plums. The midpalate shows good balance. There are nicely ripe tannins coming through to the finish, which is a combination of cranberry and black currant juices, showing references of oak barrels, a touch of smoke and earth-driven minerality.

Food Pairing: This Malbec would pair well with dishes that contain beef, lamb or poultry.

Region: Chile, Maipo

Grape Variety: Carmenere

Background: The Chileans have now claimed the ancient French Carmenere as their own, and this example is staggeringly good! A perfect example of the wonders that can be worked with this magical grape. Santa Alicia have been producing wines in the heart of Maipo Valley since 1954. With grapes from three select communes, a state-of-the-art winery, and judicious use of the finest American and French oak barrels, we believe the wines represent the highest price/quality ratio in Chile. In 2007, they were named Chilean Wine Producer of the Year for "best overall results from a Chilean winery" in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. Santa Alicia possesses a very talented team of winemakers. Leading the team, is David González, with more than 30 years of experience. David contributes, together with his philosophy of perfection, extensive knowledge and the dedication of an artisan. For him, a glass of wine goes beyond the sensory pleasure, and turns into a bridge of communication between the art of creating a mythical concoction and its final consumers.

Winemaking Process: Hand-picked premium Maipo Valley Carmenere giving the French oak treatment.

Tasting Notes: You will be seduced by the velvet smooth red cherry fruit, dark chocolate and a hint of tobacco and then quietly stunned by the powerful Shiraz like punch on the finish.

Food Pairing: This Carnemere pairs well with hamburders, pizza, t-bone steak, bison burgers and tomato-based dishes.

Region: Chile, Central Valley

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: Santa Gloria is a leading brand from the award-winning Santa Alicia Winery. David González, an inveterate perfectionist with thirty years' experience, is Santa Alicia's chief winemaker producer. Much of the grapes for this wine are sourced from the Maipo region, which surrounds Chile's capital Santiago. The Central Valley region runs for 400km south of Santiago, where plantings are dominated by the well-known "international varieties".

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red colour, this Cabernet has intense ripe red fruits on the nose with notes of eucalyptus. On the palate, it is rounded with sweet tannins and flavours of ripe cherry, plum and chocolate.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs exceptionally well with dishes that contain lamb, game, beef and poultry.

Tasting Notes: Hand-picked Maipo Valley grapes aged in French and American oak barrels. Classic Chilean - with tons of plummy fruit exhibiting aromas of dark chocolate and ground coffee beans. Really good tannins as well.

Region: Chile, Central Valley

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: Santa Alicia have been producing wines in the heart of Maipo Valley since 1954. With grapes from three select communes, a state of the art winery, and judicious use of the finest American and French oak barrels, we believe the wines represent the highest price/quality ratio in Chile.  Santa Alicia possesses a very talented team of winemakers. Leading the team, is David González, with more than 30 years of experience. David contributes, together with his philosophy of perfection, extensive knowledge and the dedication of an artisan. For him, a glass of wine goes beyond the sensory pleasure, and turns into a bridge of communication between the art of creating a mythical concoction and its final consumers.

In 2007, they were named Chilean Wine Producer of the Year for "best overall results from a Chilean winery" in the prestigious International Wine & Spirit Competition in London.

Tasting Notes: A thick, rich, brooding Cabernet, nominated 'Best Buy' in the Wine & Spirits magazine. Deliciously complex, rich and polished, exhibiting rich plum, blackberry and spice, with hints of chocolate and vanilla. Complete and elegantly styled, this brilliant Chilean is ripe with well integrated tannins.

Food Pairing: Dishes that pair well with this red wine contain meats such as lamb, poultry, game and beef.

Awards:

Wine & Spirits Best Buy - 91 points

Mundus Vini, Germany - Gold Medal

Selection Mondiales de Vins, Canada - Gold Medal

Tasting Notes: This Merlot greets you with a nose of cherry, blackcurrant and liquorice. On the palate, it is well structured, fresh, bright and with overtones of cacao and tobacco. A fantastic showcase of how Merlot can taste.

Food Pairing: Beef, lamb and game dishes are best served with this red wine.

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range. Woodstock has enjoyed a strong reputation for Cabernet Sauvignon since 1982. Situated in the higher and cooler end of the Vale, Woodstock is the perfect home for the Cabernet Sauvignon variety. Warm, sunny days with cool gully and evening sea breezes ensure the Cabernet fruit ripens well and retains its natural acidity.

Winemaking Process: There are four blocks of Cabernet on the Estate... each providing a unique character to the wine. Low yielding old vines from our Honey Hut block provide palate weight, Block 3 vines provide a hearty backbone, our “Pineless” Block provides lifted berry characters enhanced by the Creek Block’s added leafiness. Yields range from 6 to 10 tonnes per hectare. Small berries with ample fermentation time on skins result in great colour and tannin structure. This wine was matured for just over 14 months in 13% new oak and the rest in 2 to 3 year old carefully selected American and French oak to provide softness and complexity.

Tasting Notes: Classic leafy Cabernet aromas, with alluring hints of cedar and spice bouquet. Evolving flavours of juicy blackberries, rhubarb, eucalypt, toasty oak and mint combine with a rich, fleshy middle palate to create a balanced, savoury finish that lingers. This wine has bright acid and firm yet elegant tannins, which provide complexity and roundness.

Food Pairing: Enjoy with osso-bucco, meat casseroles and goats cheese.

Review:

James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion 2013 - Rating 93: 'Strong purple-crimson; a generous, medium-bodied wine with bitter chocolate characters signalling the region, the black and redcurrant fruit even more enthusiastic with its message. Very attractive wine. Exceptional value.'

Vegan

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range.

Tasting Notes: When tasting this Shiraz, generosity of colour and flavour are clear and evident. The vibrant, floral and spicy bouquet brings together both red and black fruits like cherries and plums. The classic McLaren Vale earthiness comes through on the palate which balances the fruit concentration and the soft yet structured tannins.

Food Pairing: Best served with char-grilled or roast beef served with pepper sauce and wilted baby spinach or a selection of cured meats and smoked cheddar.

VEGAN

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range. Named after a set of medieval wooden leg stocks which stand in the town of Woodstock in Oxfordshire, England, “The Stocks” Shiraz is Woodstock’s flagship wine. This single vineyard Shiraz is made from 31 rows of low-yielding vines, planted circa 1900 on a sandy north slope of Woodstock Estate.

Winemaking Process: The old vines on sandy soils are inspected thoroughly during veraison each January; exposed bunches are removed to prevent sunburn and hidden bunches are thinned to ensure even ripening. Ideally, each remaining bunch will have about two leaves between them and the sun. Yields are deliberately kept low (average yield is about two bottles per vine) and the vineyard is essentially dry grown resulting in intense concentration of flavour. The Shiraz fruit is harvested at night to preserve the delicate berry flavours. The grapes are then crushed and cold soaked for 24-48 hours before fermentation in small open fermenters and hand plunged twice daily for at least 5 days. The wine is pressed and then finishes ferment in carefully selected old and new, French and American oak barrels in a temperature controlled cellar. Each barrel is monitored, and only the finest selected to continue the lineage of Woodstock ‘The Stocks’ Shiraz.

Aging: The wine is aged in carefully selected French and American oak barrels in a temperature controlled cellar for up to 18 months. Each barrel is monitored, and only the finest selected to continue the lineage of Woodstock ‘The Stocks’ Shiraz.

Tasting Notes: Deep, dark red colour with a purple tint. Plush, red and black fruits with a touch of dried spice and toasty oak on the nose. The palate is full-bodied yet soft, with ripe tannins and mid-palate fruit harmoniously balanced, which lead to a structured and complex finish. A wine that perfectly reflects its terroir, variety and region with elegance of fruit and well-integrated oak.

VEGAN

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range.

Flying Spitfires during WWII, Douglas Collett A.M was privileged to a pilot’s eye-view of the vineyards of Europe. Returning home, Doug saw the future for an Australian table wine industry, moving on from fortified styles. Equipped with animation initiative and perseverance, Doug planted many vineyards and made wines in many regions. He loved the natural beauty and robust flavours of McLaren Vale, acquiring Woodstock Estate in 1973. Doug’s own flight helmet represents the vision and passion of this inspirational man whose philosophy was “the glass is always half full” so lets fill it up!”

Tasting Notes: This wine exhibits distinctive and perfumed dark and red fruit aromas, indicative of an excellent quality vintage. The palate is luscious with ripe fruit and layers of soft tannin. Balanced acidity and subtle oak provide texture and a long smooth finish.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with slow cooked beef fillet with red wine braised or venison dishes.

VEGAN

Region: Australia, Yenda

Grape Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaking Process: The process of winemaking is pretty long where the grapes are crushed and the stem is removed. They are then kept for fermentation on skins in contact with oak. The temperature controls the fermentation which allows maximum varietal flavour, colour and tannin extraction.

Tasting Notes: Classic and velvety, with notes of juicy blackcurrants, sweet mocha and spice. This Cabernet Sauvignon is fragrant and rich. A fragrant aroma of red fruits, blackcurrants, blackberries and sweet mocha fills the nose.

Food Pairing: This Yellowtail wine pairs well with vegetable stew with pesto, potato pan with salmon or veal steak with beans and tomatoes.

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: Merlot

Tasting Notes: Soft, velvety and smooth, with notes of dark plum, mulberries, vanilla and subtle spice.

Awards:

China Wine & Spirits Awards 2022 - Gold

San Francisco International Wine Competition 2021 - Silver

Royal Adelaide Wine Show 2021 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2019 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2018 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2017 - Gold

VEGAN

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz

Tasting Notes: Often referred to as the classic Australian red wine, Shiraz is an easy to drink, all-time favourite. Concentrated red cherry and plum is complemented by notes of vanilla, mocha and spice. The flavour is rich and smooth, with juicy red berries and hints of vanilla and spice.

Food Pairing: Shiraz, with its bold and spicy notes, pairs wonderfully with a variety of meats and cheeses found on a charcuterie board.

Awards:

CWSA - China Wine & Spirits Awards 2022 - Gold

San Francisco International Wine Competition 2021 - Double Gold

San Francisco International Wine Competition 2020 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2019 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2018 - Silver

London Wine Competition 2018 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2017 - Gold

VEGAN

Region: Italy, Roseto degli Abruzzi, Colonel, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Tasting Notes: Ruby red colour with garnet highlights. Intense and persistent aroma, with hints of chocolate that never dominate over the copious fruit. Good structure, good tannins and well-balanced.

Food Pairing: This wine would be a perfect accompaniment to appetizers of cold cuts, cheese, rich pasta dishes and excellent with red meat.

Award:

Korea Wine Challenge 2020 - Silver Medal

Tasting Notes: Great classic red Burgundy. Elegant plum and birch aromas, earth, redcurrants and truffle perfumes develop in the glass. Complex red fruit, pine, and spices blend well with the elegant acid and fine tannins.

Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs well with dishes that contain duck, goose and game birds. Other suggested dishes are Escargots Bourguignonne a l'Ancienne, braised veal, quail and fillet steak in brioche.

Tasting Notes: Bursting with black fruit aromas and a fusion of toasty oak and vanilla notes this Malbec is the perfect creation from Susana Balbo's stable of Crios (young offspring) wines. Plump, with dark cherries and brambles complemented with a touch of spice and smoky oak, this full bodied wine finishes long with soft silky tannins offering up a lot more than the price would suggest.

Reviews:

92 Points - James Suckling: “This shows the beautiful quality of the 2018 vintage with a solid core of fruit, bright acidity and a silky finish. All here. Drink now.” – 92/100 JamesSuckling.com

Screaming value - Stephen Tanzer: Crios means “offspring”. Winemaker Susana Balbo has chosen this word to reflect the notion that these wines haven’t quite “grown up” to the same level of maturity as her other, more premium wines, but they receive the same loving care and attention as all of her wines. This is probably the champion of the range – a fabulous mix of crushed red cherries and toasty / smoky oak.

Region: U.S.A., California

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Delightful aromas of raspberry and violet, a lovely medium bodied texture and a really satisfying finish are just a few of the things that have made this stunner a firm favourite. Ruby garnet colour. Dried sour cherry and raspberry jam aromas with a silky, fruity-yet-dry medium body and a tangy prune, blood orange, green apple, and earth accented finish with chewy tannins.

Food Pairing: This wine can be enjoyed by itself but it is excellent with appetisers and main courses. The wine pairs well with brie, smoked salmon, roast beef, leg of lamb, duck and grilled swordfish.

Awards:

USA Wine Ratings 2021 - Silver

Region: Argentina, Mendoza, Valle de Uco

Grape Variety: Malbec

Background: Vista Flores, is an extraordinary Terroir. Its sandy loam and rocky soils guarantee good permeability, limits plant growth and assures perfect ripeness. BenMarco Malbec is testament to Uco Valley where it hails from, proffering a bouquet of fresh black fruit, floral notes of violets, with bright acidity, firm tannins and great length. The fruit is 100% Uco Valley, Vista Flores to be precise, and the wine is made in a big, brassy style with bags of juicy dark fruit; firm, well balanced tannins and fantastic length. In recent times the BenMarco project has been overseen by the amazing talent that is Edy del Popolo, now General Manager at Susana Balbo Wines and a very famous oenologist/winemaker in his own right. It's great to see that BenMarco is in such good hands.

Food Pairing: Grilled red meats, sausages, seasoned or roasted pork, hard cheeses and pasta with meat-based sauces.

Tasting Notes: Los Chacayes is an extraordinary terroir. Its sandy, rocky loam soil guarantees good permeability, limits the growth of the plant and ensures perfect ripening. BenMarco Malbec is a testimony of Valle de Uco, endowed with aromas of black berries, notes of violets, pronounced acidity, firm tannins and great length.

Awards:

Tim Atkin 92 points

James Suckling 93 points

Wine Advocate 92 points

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: 100% Shiraz

Tasting Notes: Often referred to as the classic Australian red wine, Shiraz is an easy to drink, all-time favourite. Concentrated red cherry and plum is complemented by notes of vanilla, mocha and spice. The flavour is rich and smooth, with juicy red berries and hints of vanilla and spice.

Food Pairing: Its versatile style makes it an ideal wine to pair with grilled meats, spicy dishes or enjoy on its own.

Awards:

Yellow Tail brand has been awarded by The International Wine and Spirits Record (IWSR) the 'Most Poweful Wine Brand' for seven years in a row.

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Grenache

Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range.

Tasting Notes: Intense varietal red fruit notes include cherry and raspberry. The palate is broad and rich, allowing it to be more readily drunk in its youth.

Food Pairing: Enjoy with a selection of Spanish tapas or a nice smoked duck on the BBQ.  

VEGAN

Region: Australia

Grape Variety: Malbec

Tasting Notes: Malbec is a rich and fruity wine, with a stunning deep red colour. Elegant aromas of ripe blackberries, vibrant blueberry, vanilla, and moderate spice with a ripe fruit finish. The flavour is rich and velvety, with notes of ripe berries, dark chocolate and a hint of spice.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with a hearty beef steak and a seriously good conversation.

Awards:

Sydney Internation Wine Competition 2011 - Blue-Gold

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Barbera

Background: La Barbera, Monferrato’s diamond-point variety, finds its ideal climate amidst the Bricco Dei Guazzi vineyards, which is perfect for fostering the ripening process which gives the wine its renowned qualities: great character and optimal intensity.

Tasting Notes: This wine is a feast for the senses with loads of smoke, earth, spice, black pepper, mushroom, dark berry and meat on the nose. As if all that was not enough, the follow-through on the palate is lip-smackingly flavourful. This well balanced, dry, medium-bodied wine, with its soft silky tannins, will show well alongside grilled red meat and aged cheeses.

Food Pairing: This red wine pairs well with dishes that contain veal, pork, poultry even pasta dishes and game.


Awards:

James Suckling 2017 - 90/100

James Suckling 2018 - 90/100

xtraWine 2021 - 90/100

Region: New Zealand, Central Otago

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Lifted red fruit, violet and spicy blackcurrant aromatics. Followed by a suave, textural palate showing lots of density, complexity and persistence. Red cherry, plum, blackberry bramble and spice aromatics give way to a rich, warmly textured wine exuding lush fruit, softness, elegance and poise.

Awards:

New Zealand Ogranic Wine Awards 2024 - Gold

International Wine Challenge 2015 - Silver

New Zealand Wine of The Year 2014 - Silver

ORGANIC

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Albarossa - A breeding between Nebbiolo and Barbera

Winemaking Process: Hand harvested grapes, crushed and destemmed, left to macerate in contact with the musts at temperatures between 25°C and 28°C for a week in large steel vats. Frequent pumping over allows for optimal extraction of the colour and a good body. Malolactic fermentation is carried out, then the wine is placed in barrique barrels for 6 months, and after that in barrels of 30 hectolitres for a further 12 months. A bottle aging process of at least 4 months follows.

Tasting Notes: A deep, almost impenetrable, ruby red wine. Warm and embracing to the nose with intense aromas of blueberry and other red berries, mixed with aromas of roasted coffee and leather following through on the palate which is rounded and full-bodied, a great explosion of fruit bolstered by a tannic profile which yields an outstanding wine.

Food Pairing: It superbly pairs with the most typical dishes of Montferrat culture especially those based upon meat.

Awards

xtraWine - 94 Points - Vintage 2019

Luca Maroni- 95 Points - Vintage 2018

Luca Maroni - 96 Points - Vintage 2016

Region: Italy, Abruzzo

Grape Variety: Montepulciano

Background: This is another organic and biodynamic wine from the Lunaria guys. Montepulciano d`Abruzzo is made from carefully selected grapes and left to ferment naturally using wild yeasts before ageing in a combination of oak and stainless steel for at least four months.

Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red in colour with a pronounced nose of black cherries and a toasty note from the oak ageing. The palate is fairly full bodied with concentrated black fruit notes combines with cocoa, cinnamon and vanilla held together by chewy tannins and a long, fruity finish.

Awards:

Best Italian Winery 2012

The Sommelier Wine Awards is a wine competition with a difference. Focused entirely on wines aimed at the on-trade, since it started in 2007 it has grown to become the key competition for wines trying to increase their presence in hotels, pubs, bars and restaurants, as well as the first point of reference for the UK's on-trade wine buyers.

Not only are wines that sell in the High Street supermarkets not permitted to enter, but all of the judges are members of the on-trade, too. The tasting panel for the Sommelier Wine Awards reads like a Who’s Who of the UK hotel, restaurant and sommelier scene.

Region: Italy, Basilicata, Acerenza, PZ

Grape Variety: Aglianico

Winemaking Process: The vineyards belonging to this estate are superb; low-trained and planted on the volcanic soils of the slopes of Mount Vulture at altitudes of up to 800 metres above sea level. On arrival at the winery the grapes were destemmed and gently crushed then the must fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks at temperatures up to 30-32°C. Frequent, gentle pumping over took place during fermentation and maceration which lasted approximately 30 days.

Tasting Notes: Bright red with violet reflections. This wine has a strong aromatic integrity with hints of cherry and sour black cherry mixed with spice and vanilla. Good structure, long and balsamic finish, mature tannins and persisting aftertaste.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with spicy curry with lamb, goose breast with gingery red cabbage and marjoram or leek tortillas.


Award:

Mundus Vini 2022  - Gold Medal

Vegan

Region: Italy, Benevento

Grape Variety: Aglianico 

Tasting Notes: Deep red with violet reflections. Complex and intense, red fruit with clear notes of spice and vanilla. Slightly tannic, tannins are firm and smooth, clean and dry on the finish. A dark, brooding wine with rich aromas of chocolate, mocha and ripe black cherries. The intense, savoury palate balances the weighty fruit with the ripe, supple tannins beautifully and finishes on a long, smoky, chocolate note.

Food Pairing: Slow-cooked rack of lamb, pork ragout, roasts, and filet mignon.

Awards:

James Suckling 2022 - 90 points

Mundus Vini 2022 - Silver Medal

Frankfurt International Trophy 2022 - Silver Medal

Vegetarian & Vegan  

Region: South Africa, Paarl

Grape Variety: Merlot

Tasting Notes: This beautiful red wine is dominated by rich black berried fruit wrapped in soft tannins that gives a silky mouthfeel. Gentle oak ageing provides a further layer of flavour and complexity.

Food Pairing: A lovely wine to enjoy with grilled red meats, pasta dishes or pizza.

Tasting Notes: Aromas are of ripe, almost sweet berry fruit and floral notes. Juicy strawberry flavours, refreshing acidity and the gentlest of tannins come together in this great value cool-climate Pinot Noir. This is a lovely example of Loire Pinot, really supple and soft with good fruit depth and rounded tannins. The wine sees 15% new oak in its barrel aging which gives it good structure but still letting the strawberry and raspberry fruits come to the fore. There's a hint of richer, darker berry fruits there too with a dash of white pepper in the mix.

Food Pairing: This wine pairs well with lamb, pork, poultry and goats milk cheese.

Region: Italy, Puglia

Grape Variety: 100% Primitivo

Background: The vineyards are mostly situated in the communes of Manduria and Sava and are owned by growers with whom Filippo has been working for many years. Production is lower than its potential, which ensures the best quality grapes are selected. The red soils are calcareous clay and rich in iron, minerals and nutrients.

Winemaking Process: 80% of the grapes come from old bush vines and the rest from trained vines that are at least 20 years old. The grapes were gently pressed and cooled to 10ºC for a maceration period of 10-12 days with regular pumping over. Yeasts were added to start fermentation, which took place under temperature-controlled conditions of up to 20 ºC. The wine was then transferred to second and third passage oak barriques for six to eight months before bottling.

Tasting Notes: Ruby red colour with violet tones. Intense and complex perfumes of red cherries and blackberries, with some spice and leather which follow on to the palate. This wine has a rich and velvety texture, generous tannins and great length.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2023 - Gold

Berlin Wine Trophy 2023 - Gold

Mundus Vini 2022 - Silver

Frankfurt International Troph 2021 - Gold

Korea Wine Challenge 2020 - Silver

Frankfurt International Trophy 2020 - Gold

Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards 2019 - Gold

Region: Italy, Taurasi, Avellino, Campania 

Grape Variety: Aglianico 

Tasting Notes: Bright deep red. Intense and complex, red berry flavour with faint notes of vanilla. Slightly tannic, tannins are firm and smooth, clean and dry on the finish. 

Food Pairing: This exquisite red wine pairs perfectly with juicy beef steaks and hearty game dishes.


Awards: 

Vinoway Wine Selection 2023 - 93 points 

James Suckling 2022 - 93 points 

Berliner Wine Trophy 2022 - Gold Medal 

Korea Wine Challenge 2022 - Gold Medal


Vegetarian & Vegan

Region: Italy, Tuscany

Grape Variety: Sangiovese

Background: Podere Brizio is a top small producer, making beautifully elegant wines in Montalcino, Tuscany. This 9 hectare estate is located in Sant’Angelo in Colle, an area of Montalcino, known for producing long-lived wines of great elegance and finesse. Chief winemaker Vittorio Fiore is considered one of Italy’s leading oenologists and his touch is evident in this beautiful wine. The excellent south-west exposure of the vineyards enjoys the ideal type of soil and climate for growing the Sangiovese Grosso grapes of Montalcino. No chemicals are used and the vines are sprayed with only small quantities of organic fertilizers.

Podere Brizio is considered one of the finest estates in Montalcino. Rosso di Montalcino is made from 100% Sangiovese grapes, carefully grown in our vineyards located in the south-west part of the town of Montalcino.

Tasting Notes: A fruity, refreshing and elegant wine. Intense aromas with notes of ripe red fruit. Fresh on the palate, with elegant notes of currant and red fruits.

Food Pairing: This is an ideal bottle to accompany foods such as pasta, pizza or simply a home-made burger.

ORGANIC

Region: Italy, Tuscany

Grape Variety: Sangiovese

Tasting Notes: A ripe, focused red with prune, plum and berry character. Hints of stones and sliced apple. Full body, dense fruit, fine tannins and a bright, lively finish. Amazing acid backbone that just jumps out of the glass. A new benchmark for Tuscany’s icon wine, producing reds with wonderful intensity, structure, and energy. I find the depth of fruit, flavour and savoury, almost mineral undertone of the wines spellbinding. (93 Points James Suckling).

Awards:

International Wine Challenge 2016 - Silver

Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2016 - Silver

Concours Mondial de Bruxelles 2016 - Gold

Mundus Vini 2016 - Gold

Asia Wine Trophy 2016 - Gold

Berlin Wine Trophy 2016 - Gold

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2015 - Silver

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2014 - Silver

ORGANIC

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley 

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Tasting Notes: This rich Shiraz displays notes of blackberry, mocha and soft notes of black pepper.  

Awards:
Casella 1919 Range Awarded 91 Points by Wine Spectator: Influential US magazine Wine Spectator has granted the Casella 1919 Cabernet Sauvignon and the Casella 1919 Shiraz both 91 points in a recent tasting of the Australian wines. The rating is only given to outstanding wines of exceptional complexity and character. As an award winning winemaker with over 1000 medals, John Casella wanted to create a wine that he could credibly give as a gift. The result is Casella 1919; two classic red wines from the acclaimed 2006 vintage that represent the pinnacle of the Casella Family Brands portfolio.

International Wine Challenge 2014 - Silver

Sydney International Wine Competition 2014 - Blue-Gold Top 100

Sydney International Wine Competition 2013 - Blue-Gold Top 100

Region: Italy, Puglia, Salento

Grape Variety: 100% Zinfandel

Tasting Notes: Aromas of caramel, mocha, plum, vanilla and milk chocolate. The palate is ripe and soft with good vibrancy and lift. This is a tangy, flavourful crowd-pleaser that will be a hit at any barbeque.

Food Pairing: Enjoy it ideally with grilled meat or hearty pasta dishes for an unforgettable tasting experience.

Region: New Zealand, Marlborough

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Winemaking Process: The handpicked fruit was predominately de-stemmed without crushing into small open top fermentation tanks. Around 30% whole clusters were included in the Benmorven clone 777 fermentation whilst the Slopes Abel clone was a pure 100% whole cluster ferment. The grapes were cold soaked for around seven days, before the onset of a rapid, warm fermentation. The ferments were hand plunged up to five times each day to keep the skins in intimate contact with the fermenting juice, then left to macerate for an additional week post fermentation. The young wines were drained and pressed before being aged in French oak puncheons for 11 months, with malolactic fermentation occurring naturally as the weather warmed in early spring. The wines are bottled with a minimum of intervention; not fined or filtered.

Tasting Notes: Wild berry and dark cherry fruit flavours mingle with a stem-derived forest floor savouriness that is subtly nuanced by the sweetness of smoky toasted oak. A velvety refined tannin structure gives way to a firmer long and dry spicy finish.

Awards:

International Wine Challenge 2024 - Silver

The Global Masters 2023 - Silver

Mundu Vini 2022 - Gold

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2021 - Silver

Region: Australia, McLaren Vale

Grape Variety: Montepulciano Background: Started by the late Doug Collet in 1973, Woodstock in McLaren Vale has always had an eye on the future. As well as red, white and rose wines, Woodstock has a ken focus on fortified wines too. When his son and current owner, Scott took over in 1982, the tradition has continued with fine wine making from the old vines on the property. Ben Glaetzer is now the chief winemaker with Scott managing vines – a winning team as shown by the Heartland range.

Tasting Notes: Bright, dense and deep purple in colour. Dark morello cherries, juniper berries, spearmint and dark chocolate on the nose. Full-bodied and robust with well-integrated tannins and a velvety texture balanced by mid-palate supple fruit characters and acidity. This wine has a long, smooth and spicy finish.

Food Pairing: This Montepulciano pairs well with pizza or pasta. It is also a great food wine that is perfetly paired with Italian classics.

VEGAN

Region: Italy, Puglia

Grape Variety: Zinfandel

Tasting Notes: Full bodied and intense, smooth and harmonious, balanced and well structured, with hints of berries intended and spicy, aged 12 months in barriques.

Mundus Vini 2016 - Silver

Region: New Zealand, Central Otago

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Red fruit, dried herb and lifted spice aromatics. This wine displays great density, persistence and length. The mid palate density gives this elegant wine great poise.

Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir complements the rich flavours of duck, venison and other game birds beautifully.

Awards:

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2024 - Silver

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2023 - Gold

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2022 - Silver

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2022 - Gold

International Wine Challenge 2016 - Silver

International Wine Challenege 2015 - Gold

International Wine Challenge 2014 - Gold

Region: Germany, Baden, Markgräflerland

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Background: Martin Wassmer makes some of the best value top of the range Pinot Noir in Germany. Single vineyard, old vine with a touch of elegant oak ageing. Most of his production is sold in good restaurants across Europe.

Tasting Notes: Purple with cherry red reflections. Shows classic aromas such as sour cherries, raspberries and blackberries. Juicy, paired with ripe tannins, a balanced body and a good aromatic length. The fruity aromas in the nose can be found on the palate.

Food Pairing: Pan-fried or grilled meat, veal, beef, dark poultry and fine game dishes.

Awards:

International Wine Challenge 2018 - Gold

Region: Germany, Baden

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: Distinctly lighter than your average German pinot noir, unadulterated by oak and carrying a breezy charm. Perfumed and with sweet raspberry fruit, there's a lovely intensity with the soft tannins before an attractive red cherry hit on the finish.

Food Pairing: This German wine is best enjoyed tempered at 15 - 18 degrees. It is perfect as an accompanying wine to baked sheep cheese parcels, lemon chilli chicken with bulgur or red onion stuffed with couscous and apricots.

Tasting Notes: A young, fruity malbec of attractive red colour, vivacious and with ruby glints. Red and black fruit, such as plum and blackberry, and species in the complex background make this varietal alive. Velvety and with tons of fruit on the palate.

Region: New Zealand, Central Otago

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Tasting Notes: This has quite an earthy, gamey, savoury nose with a core of warm raspberries, kirsch, roses and cloves with a waft of yeast extract. The light-bodied palate has lovely finesse and elegance and yet offers good intensity and persistence, with lovely ripe, fine-grained tannins and plenty of layers.

Food Pairing: This red wine pairs well with beef, veal, game (venison or deer) and mushrooms.

Awards:

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2024 -  Silver

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2023 - Silver

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2022 - Silver

New Zealand Organic Wine Awards 2021 - Gold

International Wine Challenge 2016 - Silver

Region: France, Rhone

Grape Variety: Grenache

Tasting Notes: This wine has the Southern Rhône's classically warm, ripe feel with red fruits blended with spices. Well-structured on the palate with rounded tannins and a final spicy note.

Food Pairing: It will make a perfect match with fish or poultry and mushrooms especially prepared using garlic.

Awards:

Sakura Awards 2024 - Gold
Japan Wine Challenge 2021 - Silver
Sakura Awards 2020 - Silver
The Global Masters 2019 - Silver
Japan Wine Challenge 2019 - Silver

Region: Uruguay

Grape Variety: Tannat

Background: Bodega Garzón is close to Punta del Este, La Barra, and Jose Ignacio – Uruguayan Paradise at its best, with mesmerizing landscapes. Located eleven miles from the Atlantic Ocean, our estate has more than 1,000 small vineyard blocks covering its hillside slopes, which benefit from varying microclimates, different levels of humidity, and an intense canopy management. These factors allow the vines to develop with maximum exposure to the sun providing rich, expressive fruit. The vineyards are surrounded by lush forests, rocky soils, granite boulders, and naturally occurring palm trees.

Tasting Notes: Deep purple in colour. An elegant nose with aromas of cherries, strawberries and black plums with hints of smoky tobacco and dark chocolate. Full bodied, with fresh acidity and firm tannins and a long, intense finish.

Food Pairing: Some recommended pairings for this wine are grilled meats particularly ribeye and t-bone, game meats such as venison or wild boar, rich stews, aged cheeses and barbecue.

Region: Argentina, Mendoza, Valle de Uco, Paraje Altamira

Grape Variety: 96% Malbec & 4% Petit Verdot

Aging: Aged for 13 months in French oak.

Tasting Notes: A wine of an intense, ruby red color. It displays aromas of blueberries and blackberries and notes of flowers and licorice. Intense but gentle at the same time, with an elegant finish and round tannins.

Food Pairing: Red meat, pork, poultry and stuffed pasta.

Awards:

Interntional Wine Challenge 2020 - Silver

VEGETARIAN

Tasting Notes: Brilliant ruby red colour with purple hints. Very expressive nose of fresh red fruit such as cherries and plums. Good structure with polished, elegant and juicy tannins. Medium body and a long finish.

This Grand Selection wine has flavours of red currant, strawberry and blackberry, with a concentrated and round palate.

Food pairing: An ideal companion for all red meats, stew and barbecue.

Awards:

James Suckling 2017 - 92 Points

James Suckling 2015 - 91 Points

La Cav Tasting Table 2015 - 90 Points

CERTIFIED CARBON NEUTRAL

WINE OF CHILE

75CL

Region: Italy, Emilia-Romagna

Grape Variety: Sangiovese

Tasting Notes: This Sangiovese displays a bright rub red coour that anticipates its liveliness. On the one it offers an intriguing bouquet, where notes of ripe red fruits like cherry and plum stand out, enridched by spicy nuances and a slight earthy scent, which adds complexity to the olfactory experience. In the mouth, the first impression is of a medium body, with well balanced tannins and a freshness that invites the next sip. The flavours of red fruit are confirmed, accompanied by a pleasant acidity and persistent finish that leaves a pleasing sensation of palate cleanlines.

Food Pairing: It is an ideal accompaniment to Italian cuisine dishes, particularly with pasta ragu, grilled red meats or moderately aged cheeses. Thanks to its versatility and pleasantness, this Sangiovese is suitable for both an intimate dinner at home and as an offer at an event or in catering.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2019 - Silver

Region: Italy, Puglia

Grape Variety: 100% Nero di Troia

Background: Cantina Diomede is part of the Farnese Group and is based in northern Puglia, close to the town of Canosa. It controls 200 hectares of vineyards. Consultant winemaker Filippo Baccalaro works closely with oenologists Massimo di Bari and Luca Pugliese to obtain high quality, healthy grapes. Most operations are carried out manually, and the management of the vineyard follows an organic approach.

Tasting Notes: Ruby in colour with violet reflections. Red fruit aromatics of mulberry and cherry give way to a soft palate with delicate tannins. Persistent, full-bodied and elegant, this Nero di Troia is perfectly balanced. The black grape of Troy brings a smooth and quaffable texture. Concentrated black fruit flavours and a touch of sweet spice. Organically farmed.

VEGAN

VEGETARIAN

Region: Italy, Puglia

Grape Variety: Nero di Troia

Tasting Notes: Dark, liquorice-imbued fruits of the forest aromas alongside menthol and blueberry notes, almost medicinal. It is really rich on the palate with plummy, leathery flavours, macerated black cherries and even a hint of nectarine on the finish.

Food Pairing: Best to pair with grilled meats, pasta with red sauce or aged cheeses.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2021 - Gold

Mundus Vini 2018 - Silver

Region: Italy, Basilicata, Acerenza, PZ

Grape Variety: Aglianico del Vulture 

Tasting Notes: Deep red in colour. Hints of blackberry and blackcurrants mixed with spicy and balsamic notes. Great structure, long, balsamic finish, persisting aftertaste. 

Food Pairing: It is the perfect accompaniment to stuffed peppers, boeuf bourguignon or duck breast with sugar snap peas.


Awards: 

Vinoway Wine Selection 2023 - 91 points 

Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold Medal 

Decanter Wine Award 2021 - Silver Medal 

Berliner Wine Trophy 2021 - Gold Medal 

Frankfurt International Trophy 2021 - Gold Medal


Vegetarian & Vegan

Grape Variety: Syrah

Background: This wine, of French origins, became famous and popular around the world because of Australian producers. It was introduced in Sicily in early ‘90s. It has a very low quantity for hectare and the maceration of its grapes has to be at controlled temperature for about 10-12 days.

Tasting Notes: This Sicilian ruby red wine has crimson highlights. The nose is taken by a fruity bouquet. Juicy ripe berry fruits such as blackberry - and sun-ripened cherries are revealed. On the palate, this wine has a wonderfully full body that is enveloped by lively, well-integrated tannins. The pleasant finish awaits with a wonderful freshness.

Food Pairing: This wine goes very well with grilled & roasted red meats, and aged cheeses.

Award:

Luca Maroni 2023 - 92 points

Region: Italy, Puglia, Salento

Grape Variety: 100% Malvasia Nera

Tasting Notes: Ruby red colour with violet tones. Intense and complex perfumes of red cherries and blackberries, with some spice and leather which follow on to the palate. This wine has a rich and velvety texture, generous tannins and great length.

Food Pairing: It goes well with red meats, roasts with elaborate sauces and medium-aged cheeses.

Award:

Mundus Vini 2021 - Gold Medal

Region: Australia, Barossa Valley

Grape Variety: Shiraz

Background: Langmeil’s history dates back to 1842 and the winery now draws on Barossa’s cultural beginnings and combines it with world-class winemaking. Its flagship, Freedom Shiraz, comes from what is believed to be the oldest Shiraz vines in the world, dating back to 1843. Old Barossan vines are a trademark of the winery, as are Chief Winemaker, Paul Lindner’s minimal intervention techniques.

Tasting Notes: It is rich and full, velvety and seamless, with impeccably bright fruit, plum, mulberry and raspberry that layers the rich palate. There is also some gentle spice, and the oak effortlessly rounds out the wine. This will develop beautifully over the next few years.

Awards:

Global Syrah Masters - Drinks Business 2021 - Silver Medal

Region: Italy, Sambuca di Sicily (AG)

Tasting Notes: It is an intense ruby colour with violet notes and lightly tannic, full and persistent aroma. Well balanced and easily drinkable.

Food Pairing: Great with red meat, barbecued and grilled meat, excellent with first courses, game birds and seasoned cheese. Try it with eggplant caponata or braised cauliflower.

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Nebbiolo

Background: The Batasiolo Estate has vineyards located within the prized Barolo wine-growing areas: Batasiolo, Morino, Cerequio and Brunate in La Morra; Boscareto and the historical Briccolina in Serralunga d’Alba; Bricco di Vergne and Zonchetta in Barolo; Tantesi and Bussia Bofani in Monforte d’Alba. Set amidst the gentle contours of the Batasiolo vineyard, the Estate cannot be understood without admiring the expanses of its vineyards in the finest and most important wine-growing villages of the Langhe.

Tasting Notes: A mix of liquorice, bouillon, leather and tar highlights this muscular red. Should develop on a relatively fast track, yet remains fresh and long on the finish.

Wine with deep garnet red colour and persistent aromas of ripe fruit, flowers and spices. Subtly reminiscent of wood, its main characteristic, the typical aromas of Nebbiolo blend to create a sensation of rare elegance. Powerful, elegant and charming, it has a full-bodied palate of great intensity. All the notes in the nose are harmonically enhanced making this a wine to be remembered.

Awards:

Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Nebbiolo

Background: The Batasiolo Estate has vineyards holdings located within the prized Barolo wine-growing areas: Batasiolo, Morino, Cerequio and Brunate in La Morra; Boscareto and the historical Briccolina in Serralunga d’Alba; Bricco di Vergne and Zonchetta in Barolo; Tantesi and Bussia Bofani in Monforte d’Alba. Set amidst the gentle contours of the Batasiolo vineyard, the Estate cannot be understood without admiring the expanses of its vineyards in the finest and most important wine-growing villages of the Langhe.

Tasting Notes: It starts with an alluring fragrance of rose, forest floor, and cake spices. The vibrant, subtle palate doles out crunchy red cherry lightly accented with notes of clove and cinnamon alongside silky tannins.

Food Pairing: Ideal in combination with dishes or red meats, game, roasts, cheeses and cured meats.

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Nebbiolo

Tasting Notes: The colour is deep garnet red. The bouquet has all the typical aromas of the grape nebbiolo after the aging period provided by the process of production, showing the dried fruit, flowers, spices, sweets, and the typical delicate herbaceous aromas. In the mouth, the perfect balance between tannins, freshness and the alcoholic content, offer truly powerful sensations but absolutely elegant and pleasing. Good intensity and persistence put this wine one of the best expressions of the Langa.

Food Pairing: Pairs well with red meats, game, roasts and with sharp and aged cheeses.

Awards:

Sommeliers Choice Awards 2024 - Gold
Mundus Vini 2023 - Gold
Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold
The Texsom International Wine Awards 2017 - Silver
Los Angeles International Wine Competition 2016 - Silver
The Texsom International Wine Awards 2016 - Silver
International Wine Challenge 2011 - Silver
Mundus Vini 2011 - Silver

Region: Italy, Piedmont

Grape Variety: Nebbiolo

Background: The Batasiolo Estate has vineyards holdings located within the prized Barolo wine-growing areas: Batasiolo, Morino, Cerequio and Brunate in La Morra; Boscareto and the historical Briccolina in Serralunga d’Alba; Bricco di Vergne and Zonchetta in Barolo; Tantesi and Bussia Bofani in Monforte d’Alba. Set amidst the gentle contours of the Batasiolo vineyard, the Estate cannot be understood without admiring the expanses of its vineyards in the finest and most important wine-growing villages of the Langhe.

Tasting Notes: Pretty aromas of perfumed berry, fragrant blue flowers and vineyard dust shape the nose. The vibrant, linear palate delivers crunchy red cherry, pomegranate, star anise and a hint of white pepper alongside bright acidity and taut but refined tannins.

Awards:

The Texsom International Wine Awards 2017 - Silver
The Texsom International Wine Awards 2016 - Silver
International Wine Challenge 2010 - Bronze
International Wine Challenge 2009 - Gold

Region: Germany, Baden

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Background: Baden is earning itself some renown in the UK for its wines these days, particularly Pinot Noir. In the Markgraeferland, between the Black Forest and the Rhine, the undulating countryside and warm summer weather has led to the area becoming known as the German Tuscany and there is a history of winemaking that goes back almost as long as in the more famous Italian region. Here you will find the vineyards and cellars of Martin Wassmer, whose family have lived in and around the Baden town of Schlatt for many generations, most of them involved in the making of wine.

He specialises in the Pinots - Noir, Blanc and Gris (known here as spätburgunder, weissburgunder and grauburgunder), though he also grows and produces chardonnay, muscat, gewürztraminer and chasselas (aka gutedel). This part of Germany is, after all, a hop, skip and a jump away from the Alsace which shares all these varieties. Winemaking is traditional, with only natural yeasts used for the slow, long fermentations, and the wines are all aged in barrel with the top cuvées in Burgundian barriques for up to 18 months, with a minimal filtration before bottling.

Tasting Notes: Aromatically restrained with a hint of cinnamon and anise. Opens up well with a surge of toasty oak, dark chocolate and ripe red fruit with touches of coffee and bacon. Grainy tannin and fine length give it an authoritative stamp.

Awards:

International Wine Challenge 2017 - Silver

International Wine Challenge 2013 - Gold

Region: Uruguay

Grape Variety: Cabernet Franc

Background: Bodega Garzón is close to Punta del Este, La Barra, and Jose Ignacio – Uruguayan Paradise at its best, with mesmerizing landscapes. Located eleven miles from the Atlantic Ocean, our estate has more than 1,000 small vineyard blocks covering its hillside slopes, which benefit from varying microclimates, different levels of humidity, and an intense canopy management. These factors allow the vines to develop with maximum exposure to the sun providing rich, expressive fruit. The vineyards are surrounded by lush forests, rocky soils, granite boulders, and naturally occurring palm trees.

Tasting Notes: Of an intense purple colour with violet highlights, this noble varietal has mineral aromas of ripe peppers, spices and fruits of the forest, along with a subtle note of dark chocolate and smoke from barrel ageing. In the mouth, there are layers of soft tannins, combining prunes and ripe blackberries with the fresh notes of eucalyptus and mint, making it delightfully complex.

Food Pairing: This elegant red wine is a perfect companion for Mediterranean dishes such as roasted pork ribs on fennal and leeks, braised pork tenderloin baked with baby potatoes with rosemary or pappardelle with wild mushroom ragout.

Vegan

Region: New Zealand, Marlborough

Grape Variety: Pinot Noir

Background: Leefield Station is located in the Waihopai Valley of Marlborough, and is one of the oldest farming stations in Marlborough, dating back to the 1840s. In 2013 Brent Marris of Marisco Vineyards purchased the 2,300 ha property with sights set for not only its pastoral farming potential but also to convert a large portion of the land to vineyard.

Tasting Notes: This core of pure red fruits sits amidst savoury elements of grape stem, smoke and a hint of classic Pinot Noir funk.

Awards:

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2024 - Silver

Mundus Vini 2024 - Gold

Sommeliers Choice Awards 2024 - Gold

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2023 - Silver

International Wine Challenge 2022 - Silver

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2022 - Silver

Mundus Vini 2022 - Gold