Australia & NZ
These far-flung wine regions may be referred to ‘new’ when compared against the historic European wine regions, but they have a long winemaking history. Spared from Phylloxera, Australia in particular has world's highest concentration of venerable vines and legendary producers such as Penfolds, Henschke and Tyrell’s have been around for over 150 years. Though for many years piggybacking on Europe’s successes, branding their own wines as ‘Chablis’, ‘Hermitage’ etc., Australia now have created a real identity of their own, making inimitable styles like Coonawarra Cabernet or Hunter Valley Semillon.
New Zealand doesn’t quite have as an extensive history but has established itself in an astonishingly short amount of time as a reliable source of whistle clean, distinctive examples of varietals like Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
Australia & NZ
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Halliday Wine Companion (98)
It’s been a joy to watch the evolution of Heytesbury over the past decade or so, as it's one of the great Australian chardonnays. Whatever vintage conditions have thrown at it, and with tweaks along the way, the nucleus remains steadfast: quality, excellent fruit and a second-to-none level of detail in the winemaking. This is an evocative wine. Pristine and sublime. Funky sulphides rockin’ it while a gossamer thread of acidity holds everything in line – the citrus flavours, the texture, the wine totally enveloping the oak and, while it’s a powerhouse of flavour, there’s a purity to this. It’s such a contrast. How does it achieve that?Inc. VAT£443.89 -
(6x75cl) 2022Halliday Wine Companion (97)
If one wine typifies the current state of Australian chardonnay (complex, superfine, detailed and majestic) as much as a wine of place, Heytesbury could possibly be it. There’s a lot of fruit power this vintage, yet still, a tightly coiled style in youth. A millefeuille of flavour – grapefruit, lemon salt, white nectarine and complex savoury nuances, the oak and lees folded into the wine. There’s an intriguing zinc character too, a little flinty and funky with mouth-watering acidity. Moreish and compelling all the way through. Mesmerising.Inc. VAT£345.49 -
The Real Review (98)
Deep red/purple colour with a very fresh, nuanced, aromatic bouquet loaded with blue and red fruits, cedar and high-toned flowers, violets to the fore. A totally gorgeous bouquet, very fresh and primary but also complex and detailed. Very fine tannins; extremely long carry. A supremely elegant, sublime wine that finishes right out with impressive extension. Clearly, the best Tom Cullity to date. (17% malbec; 1% petit verdot)Inc. VAT£743.98 -
The West Australian (99)
Highly perfumed aromas strike immediately. There is that combination of fruit sweetness and fine chalky minerally tannins. Loads of blackcurrant and juicy plum with a dollop of chocolate and mocha cut with floral and dried herb notes. Bright and energetic at every turn with subtlety and elegance. Delivers with a degree of understatement and restraint yet gathers pace and momentum as it drives through to the finish. The tannins are more in the powdery space with that slightly aspirin-like oak influence bringing it all together seamlessly and harmoniously. This is classic cabernet in its varietal makeup with a firm spine and length. The malbec has brought a vibrant red fruit juiciness into the equation. The finest wine yet from Vasse Felix. It’s 2016 without the tannin and 2014 without the opulence.Inc. VAT£301.99 -
The West Australian (99)
Highly perfumed aromas strike immediately. There is that combination of fruit sweetness and fine chalky minerally tannins. Loads of blackcurrant and juicy plum with a dollop of chocolate and mocha cut with floral and dried herb notes. Bright and energetic at every turn with subtlety and elegance. Delivers with a degree of understatement and restraint yet gathers pace and momentum as it drives through to the finish. The tannins are more in the powdery space with that slightly aspirin-like oak influence bringing it all together seamlessly and harmoniously. This is classic cabernet in its varietal makeup with a firm spine and length. The malbec has brought a vibrant red fruit juiciness into the equation. The finest wine yet from Vasse Felix. It’s 2016 without the tannin and 2014 without the opulence.Inc. VAT£140.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013Exquisite and full-bodied, the Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 is a celebrated offering from the notable Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. Crafted by the venerable house of Vidal, revered for its century-old traditions and meticulous winemaking practices, this wine embodies sophistication and elegance.
The Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 is a sublime expression of its terroir, nurtured by the cooling sea breezes and sun-kissed gravelly soils of the Gimblett Gravels Vineyard. The wine went through a cold soak, followed by fermentation in open top fermenters, and maturation in French oak barriques—it’s a testament to Vidal's commitment to traditional winemaking techniques.
Offering hints of white and black pepper, organically interwoven with layers of dark fruit and notes of mocha, this umami-rich red wine is the essence of complexity and balance. Boasting plush, well-integrated tannins and a persistent finish, the Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 epitomises fine viniculture at its best.
Inc. VAT£210.29 -
(6x75cl) 2014Raymond Chan (100)
Very dark, full, near saturated black-hued purple-red colour, a little lighter on the rim. The nose is tight and concentrated with rich and sweetly ripe aromas of black berried fruits and black plums with a fine and integrated amalgam of black pepper, and black and violet florals, unveiling subtle layers of spicy and nutty oak and nuance of iron-earth. This is beautifully proportioned and refined in expression. Medium-full bodied, the fruit is tightly bound but clearly rich and succulent, showing flavours of ripe blackberries and black plums with hints of blueberries along with liquorice melded with black pepper, iron-earth and subtle black florals. This has a concentrated core with linear drive and energy, the fruit balanced by fine-grained, significant tannin structure and fresh, integrated acidity. The wine flows with textural finesse and succulence, leading to a long and sustained, vibrant finish. This is a concentrated Syrah with ripe black fruits along with complex black pepper and iron-earth nuances balanced by fine structure.Inc. VAT£276.80 -
The Real Review (96)
Intense and deliciously complex chardonnay with grapefruit, saline/oyster shell, ginger, nutty yeast lees and spicy French oak flavours. Impressive depth and cellaring potential. A remarkable success from a difficult vintage.Inc. VAT£245.52 -
The Real Review (96)
Deep, dark red/purple colour, excellent hue, and the bouquet is classic cabernet sauvignon: cedar, blackcurrant, blackberry, tobacco and a trace of seaweed or nori. Coffee grounds later. Concentrated and powerful, this is a majestic cabernet, with tremendous concentration, fleshy extract and drive. It fills the mouth to overflowing. A great wine in the making and a triumph for a straight cabernet sauvignon from this region.Inc. VAT£423.12 -
The Real Review (97)
Intense yet surprisingly accessible red with cassis, blackberry, cedar, vanilla, black cherry, and spicy French oak flavours. Powerful yet elegant wine with strong varietal identity. Should develop well with bottle age.Inc. VAT£423.95 -
(6x75cl) 2015For those seeking sophistication and depth, the Wakefield St. Andrews Riesling 2015 is a sublime choice. Hailing from the renowned Clare Valley in South Australia, it captures Wakefield's meticulous and passionate winemaking approach. The St. Andrews vineyard, its treasured fruit source, gifts a stunning golden hue, revealing intense citrus and floral notes on the nose. Upon tasting, the palate is greeted by a symphony of lime and grapefruit, met by soft mineral undertones.
This vintage was harvested during the cool nightly temperatures, preserving the fruit’s natural acidity and aromatic qualities. Wakefield's skilled craftsmanship and time-honoured techniques facilitate the slow, steady fermentation in stainless steel tanks, helping to develop its exemplary depth and complexity. The Wakefield St. Andrews Riesling 2015 forms part of their ultra-premium range and is a developing testament to their commitment to produce wines that can stand with the finest on the global stage.
Inc. VAT£161.60 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The blockbuster 2004 Shiraz Springflat’s inky/purple color is followed by a wine that pushes concentration to the limit. Made from tiny yields of 1.5 to 1.8 tons of fruit per acre, aged in 50% new and 50% 1 and 2 year old oak (half American and half French) barrels, it is a huge, rich, backward Shiraz that still assaults the palate and olfactory senses. Forget this big, structured, intense 2004 for 2-3 years and drink it over the following 15 or more.Inc. VAT£100.67 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2006 Springflat Shiraz is 100% varietal aged in 100% new French and American oak. The nose offers up an array of cedar, saddle leather, boysenberry, blackberry, and blueberry compote. This is followed by a sweetly fruited, opulent wine with layers of spicy flavors, earth notes, and spice box. Balanced and exceptionally long, this large-scaled effort will evolve for another 5-7 years and be at its best through 2031.Inc. VAT£127.90 -
Experience the elegance of the Wild Irishman, Doctors Flat Vineyard Pinot Noir, Bannockburn 2022. Crafted in the esteemed Bannockburn region, this Pinot Noir benefits from the Vineyard’s unique terroir, characterised by its well-drained soils and temperate climate. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in stainless steel vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels to impart subtle complexity. The producer, renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture, ensures each vintage reflects both tradition and innovation. This 2022 vintage presents a delicate ruby hue, with enticing aromas of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of earthy spice. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of vibrant acidity and silky tannins, culminating in a long, refined finish. Perfect for pairing with gourmet dishes or savoury delicacies, the Wild Irishman, Doctors Flat Vineyard Pinot Noir, Bannockburn 2022 exemplifies fine winemaking prowess and exceptional quality.
Inc. VAT£224.33 -
(6x75cl) 2022Wild Irishman, Macushla Pinot Noir, Gibbston 2022 is a sublime expression of Central Otago's renowned terroir. Crafted by esteemed producer Wild Irishman, this Pinot Noir undergoes meticulous hand harvesting from the Macushla vineyard, nestled in the fertile soils of Gibbston. Fermented using indigenous yeasts and aged in French oak barrels for twelve months, the 2022 vintage exhibits a harmonious balance of vibrant red fruits and subtle earthy undertones. Its elegant structure is complemented by silky tannins and a lingering finish, reflecting the region's crisp climate and the producer's unwavering commitment to quality. This exceptional wine showcases the nuanced complexity and refined sophistication that true connoisseurs seek, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
Inc. VAT£224.33 -
(6x75cl) 2022Experience the exquisite elegance of Wild Irishman, Tuturi Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2022. Crafted by the esteemed Tuturi Winery, nestled in the heart of Central Otago’s premier vineyards, this Pinot Noir epitomises the region’s renowned terroir. Hand-selected grapes from meticulously tended vines flourish in the cool, dry climate, allowing for optimal ripening and complex flavour development. During vinification, the grapes undergo gentle whole-cluster fermentation, preserving delicate aromatics and enhancing the wine’s silky texture. Matured for 12 months in French oak barrels, Wild Irishman reveals layers of vibrant cherry, raspberry, and subtle spice, intertwined with earthy undertones and a refined minerality. The 2022 vintage stands out for its balance and depth, showcasing the impeccable craftsmanship of Tuturi. Perfectly pairing with gourmet dishes or savoury delicacies, this Pinot Noir is a testament to fine winemaking excellence. Indulge in the sophistication and character that defines Wild Irishman, Tuturi Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2022.
Inc. VAT£224.33 -
Emanating from the premium vineyards of Western Australia, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 is a true connoisseur's delight. This lustrous Cabernet Sauvignon has been matured in French oak barrels, offering an extraordinary balance of tannins and fruit profiles. The meticulous cultivation process under cool maritime-influenced climate imparts a distinctive depth to its full-bodied palate.
Characterised by intricate layers of well-ripened blackcurrants, delicate chocolate undertones and a hint of earthy complexity, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 exhibits great finesse. Ingeniously crafted by Woodside Valley Estate, a respected producer known for their attention to detail and unwavering quality standards, this wine is a testament to their expertise.
The 2004 vintage speaks volumes of the terroir's unique characteristics, making this wine a superb choice for those seeking a tasting experience replete with the essence of Australian vineyards. Indulge in the remarkable Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 - a wine that truly stands in a class of its own.
Inc. VAT£292.40 -
Andrew Caillard MW (100)
Deep crimson. Lovely pure blackcurrant elderberry herb garden aromas with hints of espresso/ roasted chestnut notes. Beautiful concentrated wine with blackcurrant elderberry chinotto herb flavours, fine-grained and plentiful yet vigorous tannins, superb mid palate richness and integrated roasted chestnut/ cedar oak notes. Finishes chalky firm with a long inky/ graphite plume. Made for the long haul. Powerfully expressive yet unforced wine with superb vinosity, richness, density and volume. Superb. The fruit derives from the V&A (Victoria & Albert) and Nursery Vineyards, both located on classic terra rossa soils. From a dry, mild to warm growing season. Wait a few years to let it unfold, 2025-2050.Inc. VAT£390.46 -
(6x75cl) 2020
The Real Review (97)
Impressively dense, dark, glass-staining colour with a strong tint of purple. Concentrated and superripe blackberry aromas, bright and intense and beautifully ripe with minimal herbal accents. Nuances of tar and licorice as well. It's full bodied and rich, concentrated and ample, with lashings of supple, fine-grained tannins and a long carry. A powerful wine but one that glides across the palate effortlessly. A beautiful and long-term cabernet.Inc. VAT£552.04 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Halliday Wine Companion (98)
16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise.Inc. VAT£519.12 -
Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 epitomises the elegance and finesse characteristic of premium cool-climate viticulture. Sourced from Yabby Lake’s prestigious Block 6 vineyard in the heart of the Yarra Valley, this Pinot Noir benefits from meticulously managed vine canopies and optimal ripening conditions. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving delicate aromatics and vibrant acidity. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, the wine develops subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing its intrinsic fruit profile. Crafted by the esteemed Yabby Lake winery, renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices, the 2017 vintage displays a nuanced palate of dark cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones, supported by silky tannins and a lingering finish. Perfectly poised to cellar or enjoy now, Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and terroir expression.
Inc. VAT£133.73 -
(6x75cl) 2018Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed leaving 25% whole bunches in traditional oak ferment, 3-4 days cold soak, 14 days on skins, pressed to French puncheons for 11 months maturation. Exceptional colour; super supple mouthfeel, a velvety mid-palate balanced by savoury/foresty glimpses on the finish. Retasted in '20, vibrant and still in primary mode with juicy pinot fruit. A drink-to date is largely irrelevant.Inc. VAT£430.40 -
Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed, partial whole berry adherence for stems, 4 days cold soak, wild-fermented, 14 days on skins, pressed to tight-grain puncheons for 8 months maturation. A layered palate interleaving velvety fruit and hints of forest on the long, medium-bodied palate. Trophy Best Pinot Noir Mornington Peninsula Wine Show.Inc. VAT£154.13 -
(1x75cl) 2018The Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 epitomises exceptional viticulture and craftsmanship from Tasmania’s renowned Yabby Lake region. Hand-harvested from meticulously selected blocks, the grapes benefit from the vineyard’s unique terroir, characterised by cool maritime influences and well-drained soils. Fermented using native yeast strains in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, this Pinot Noir undergoes a meticulous vinification process to preserve its elegance and complexity. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes while maintaining its vibrant fruit profile. Expertly produced by the acclaimed Yabby Lake Estate, known for sustainable farming practices and dedication to quality, the 2018 vintage exhibits a harmonious balance of ripe red berries, delicate floral nuances, and a refined earthy undertone. With its silky tannins and lingering finish, the Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 is a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking a quintessential expression of fine Australian Pinot Noir.
Inc. VAT£100.13 -
James Suckling (98)
This is a strong cross-regional combination. Immense depth of olives, cassis, blue plums and iodine with blackberries, earthy nuances, fragrant baking spices and chocolate. The palate is beautifully assembled with deep-set tannins that carry long and majestic. Rich dark-fruit flavors. A landmark first release that will drink well for decades. Drink from 2024.Inc. VAT£551.58 -
Matthew Jukes (19.5+)
2013 is a powerhouse, with density, structure and presence, but it is not a heavy wine! Instead, this is a cerebral, through-provoking number with layer upon layer of savoury, noble fruit. The differences between the yin and yang of these two vintages is also evident in the blend. 2012 was made of 79% Cabernet (of which 27% was Barossan and the lion’s share was from Coonawarra) and 21% Barossa Shiraz. In 2013 KG marries 55% Coonawarra Cabernet with 45% Barossa Shiraz. This is a more ‘historical-Aussie-claret-shaped’ wine and the extra splash of Barossa Shiraz helps to bring flesh to the upright, masterful Cabernet.Inc. VAT£482.76 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.Inc. VAT£227.06 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.Inc. VAT£567.62 -
The Real Review (98)
This wine is continuing to build, and is now showing a glorious perfume, the aromatics similar to the 2012, which set a very high standard that this vintage reaches and arguably surpasses. Spicy and ultra-complex, with shiraz and Barossa both evident in the wine. It's very intense, taut and concentrated, as well as finely-textured and incredibly long in the mouth. A great wine of wonderful purity and harmony. (74% Coonawarra cabernet, 26% Barossa shiraz)Inc. VAT£551.58 -
Matthew Jukes (20++)
You have seen my MoneyWeek article above and this time that is all you are getting. This wine WILL feature in my 100 Best Australian Wines Report 2021-22, which WILL be released this year. Forgive me for the capitals, but I have had enough of this pandemic and so I am pressing on regardless. You already know my score, but here it is again and it certainly bears repeating. But before I type this perfect number again I would like to inform you that I tasted 450 bottles of 2020 En Primeur Bordeaux this year and I would, of course, love you to download this Report from this website. The reason for mentioning this is that none of them warranted a perfect score, so I hope that this underlines just how remarkable it is that The Caley has done this twice in five years and also, with an average of 19.6/20, this accounts for my lofty headline at the top of this article.Inc. VAT£227.06
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Halliday Wine Companion (98)
It’s been a joy to watch the evolution of Heytesbury over the past decade or so, as it's one of the great Australian chardonnays. Whatever vintage conditions have thrown at it, and with tweaks along the way, the nucleus remains steadfast: quality, excellent fruit and a second-to-none level of detail in the winemaking. This is an evocative wine. Pristine and sublime. Funky sulphides rockin’ it while a gossamer thread of acidity holds everything in line – the citrus flavours, the texture, the wine totally enveloping the oak and, while it’s a powerhouse of flavour, there’s a purity to this. It’s such a contrast. How does it achieve that?In Bond£352.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
If one wine typifies the current state of Australian chardonnay (complex, superfine, detailed and majestic) as much as a wine of place, Heytesbury could possibly be it. There’s a lot of fruit power this vintage, yet still, a tightly coiled style in youth. A millefeuille of flavour – grapefruit, lemon salt, white nectarine and complex savoury nuances, the oak and lees folded into the wine. There’s an intriguing zinc character too, a little flinty and funky with mouth-watering acidity. Moreish and compelling all the way through. Mesmerising.In Bond£270.00 -
The Real Review (98)
Deep red/purple colour with a very fresh, nuanced, aromatic bouquet loaded with blue and red fruits, cedar and high-toned flowers, violets to the fore. A totally gorgeous bouquet, very fresh and primary but also complex and detailed. Very fine tannins; extremely long carry. A supremely elegant, sublime wine that finishes right out with impressive extension. Clearly, the best Tom Cullity to date. (17% malbec; 1% petit verdot)In Bond£600.00 -
The West Australian (99)
Highly perfumed aromas strike immediately. There is that combination of fruit sweetness and fine chalky minerally tannins. Loads of blackcurrant and juicy plum with a dollop of chocolate and mocha cut with floral and dried herb notes. Bright and energetic at every turn with subtlety and elegance. Delivers with a degree of understatement and restraint yet gathers pace and momentum as it drives through to the finish. The tannins are more in the powdery space with that slightly aspirin-like oak influence bringing it all together seamlessly and harmoniously. This is classic cabernet in its varietal makeup with a firm spine and length. The malbec has brought a vibrant red fruit juiciness into the equation. The finest wine yet from Vasse Felix. It’s 2016 without the tannin and 2014 without the opulence.In Bond£245.00 -
The West Australian (99)
Highly perfumed aromas strike immediately. There is that combination of fruit sweetness and fine chalky minerally tannins. Loads of blackcurrant and juicy plum with a dollop of chocolate and mocha cut with floral and dried herb notes. Bright and energetic at every turn with subtlety and elegance. Delivers with a degree of understatement and restraint yet gathers pace and momentum as it drives through to the finish. The tannins are more in the powdery space with that slightly aspirin-like oak influence bringing it all together seamlessly and harmoniously. This is classic cabernet in its varietal makeup with a firm spine and length. The malbec has brought a vibrant red fruit juiciness into the equation. The finest wine yet from Vasse Felix. It’s 2016 without the tannin and 2014 without the opulence.In Bond£114.00 -
(6x75cl) 2013
Exquisite and full-bodied, the Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 is a celebrated offering from the notable Hawke's Bay region of New Zealand. Crafted by the venerable house of Vidal, revered for its century-old traditions and meticulous winemaking practices, this wine embodies sophistication and elegance.
The Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 is a sublime expression of its terroir, nurtured by the cooling sea breezes and sun-kissed gravelly soils of the Gimblett Gravels Vineyard. The wine went through a cold soak, followed by fermentation in open top fermenters, and maturation in French oak barriques—it’s a testament to Vidal's commitment to traditional winemaking techniques.
Offering hints of white and black pepper, organically interwoven with layers of dark fruit and notes of mocha, this umami-rich red wine is the essence of complexity and balance. Boasting plush, well-integrated tannins and a persistent finish, the Vidal Legacy Syrah 2013 epitomises fine viniculture at its best.
In Bond£156.00 -
(6x75cl) 2014
Raymond Chan (100)
Very dark, full, near saturated black-hued purple-red colour, a little lighter on the rim. The nose is tight and concentrated with rich and sweetly ripe aromas of black berried fruits and black plums with a fine and integrated amalgam of black pepper, and black and violet florals, unveiling subtle layers of spicy and nutty oak and nuance of iron-earth. This is beautifully proportioned and refined in expression. Medium-full bodied, the fruit is tightly bound but clearly rich and succulent, showing flavours of ripe blackberries and black plums with hints of blueberries along with liquorice melded with black pepper, iron-earth and subtle black florals. This has a concentrated core with linear drive and energy, the fruit balanced by fine-grained, significant tannin structure and fresh, integrated acidity. The wine flows with textural finesse and succulence, leading to a long and sustained, vibrant finish. This is a concentrated Syrah with ripe black fruits along with complex black pepper and iron-earth nuances balanced by fine structure.In Bond£210.00 -
The Real Review (96)
Intense and deliciously complex chardonnay with grapefruit, saline/oyster shell, ginger, nutty yeast lees and spicy French oak flavours. Impressive depth and cellaring potential. A remarkable success from a difficult vintage.In Bond£186.00 -
The Real Review (96)
Deep, dark red/purple colour, excellent hue, and the bouquet is classic cabernet sauvignon: cedar, blackcurrant, blackberry, tobacco and a trace of seaweed or nori. Coffee grounds later. Concentrated and powerful, this is a majestic cabernet, with tremendous concentration, fleshy extract and drive. It fills the mouth to overflowing. A great wine in the making and a triumph for a straight cabernet sauvignon from this region.In Bond£334.00 -
The Real Review (97)
Intense yet surprisingly accessible red with cassis, blackberry, cedar, vanilla, black cherry, and spicy French oak flavours. Powerful yet elegant wine with strong varietal identity. Should develop well with bottle age.In Bond£334.00 -
(6x75cl) 2015
For those seeking sophistication and depth, the Wakefield St. Andrews Riesling 2015 is a sublime choice. Hailing from the renowned Clare Valley in South Australia, it captures Wakefield's meticulous and passionate winemaking approach. The St. Andrews vineyard, its treasured fruit source, gifts a stunning golden hue, revealing intense citrus and floral notes on the nose. Upon tasting, the palate is greeted by a symphony of lime and grapefruit, met by soft mineral undertones.
This vintage was harvested during the cool nightly temperatures, preserving the fruit’s natural acidity and aromatic qualities. Wakefield's skilled craftsmanship and time-honoured techniques facilitate the slow, steady fermentation in stainless steel tanks, helping to develop its exemplary depth and complexity. The Wakefield St. Andrews Riesling 2015 forms part of their ultra-premium range and is a developing testament to their commitment to produce wines that can stand with the finest on the global stage.
In Bond£114.00 -
Wine Advocate (94)
The blockbuster 2004 Shiraz Springflat’s inky/purple color is followed by a wine that pushes concentration to the limit. Made from tiny yields of 1.5 to 1.8 tons of fruit per acre, aged in 50% new and 50% 1 and 2 year old oak (half American and half French) barrels, it is a huge, rich, backward Shiraz that still assaults the palate and olfactory senses. Forget this big, structured, intense 2004 for 2-3 years and drink it over the following 15 or more.In Bond£77.00 -
Wine Advocate (95)
The 2006 Springflat Shiraz is 100% varietal aged in 100% new French and American oak. The nose offers up an array of cedar, saddle leather, boysenberry, blackberry, and blueberry compote. This is followed by a sweetly fruited, opulent wine with layers of spicy flavors, earth notes, and spice box. Balanced and exceptionally long, this large-scaled effort will evolve for another 5-7 years and be at its best through 2031.In Bond£99.00 -
Experience the elegance of the Wild Irishman, Doctors Flat Vineyard Pinot Noir, Bannockburn 2022. Crafted in the esteemed Bannockburn region, this Pinot Noir benefits from the Vineyard’s unique terroir, characterised by its well-drained soils and temperate climate. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in stainless steel vats, followed by aging in French oak barrels to impart subtle complexity. The producer, renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture, ensures each vintage reflects both tradition and innovation. This 2022 vintage presents a delicate ruby hue, with enticing aromas of cherry, raspberry, and a hint of earthy spice. On the palate, it offers a harmonious balance of vibrant acidity and silky tannins, culminating in a long, refined finish. Perfect for pairing with gourmet dishes or savoury delicacies, the Wild Irishman, Doctors Flat Vineyard Pinot Noir, Bannockburn 2022 exemplifies fine winemaking prowess and exceptional quality.
In Bond£167.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Wild Irishman, Macushla Pinot Noir, Gibbston 2022 is a sublime expression of Central Otago's renowned terroir. Crafted by esteemed producer Wild Irishman, this Pinot Noir undergoes meticulous hand harvesting from the Macushla vineyard, nestled in the fertile soils of Gibbston. Fermented using indigenous yeasts and aged in French oak barrels for twelve months, the 2022 vintage exhibits a harmonious balance of vibrant red fruits and subtle earthy undertones. Its elegant structure is complemented by silky tannins and a lingering finish, reflecting the region's crisp climate and the producer's unwavering commitment to quality. This exceptional wine showcases the nuanced complexity and refined sophistication that true connoisseurs seek, making it a distinguished addition to any fine wine collection.
In Bond£167.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Experience the exquisite elegance of Wild Irishman, Tuturi Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2022. Crafted by the esteemed Tuturi Winery, nestled in the heart of Central Otago’s premier vineyards, this Pinot Noir epitomises the region’s renowned terroir. Hand-selected grapes from meticulously tended vines flourish in the cool, dry climate, allowing for optimal ripening and complex flavour development. During vinification, the grapes undergo gentle whole-cluster fermentation, preserving delicate aromatics and enhancing the wine’s silky texture. Matured for 12 months in French oak barrels, Wild Irishman reveals layers of vibrant cherry, raspberry, and subtle spice, intertwined with earthy undertones and a refined minerality. The 2022 vintage stands out for its balance and depth, showcasing the impeccable craftsmanship of Tuturi. Perfectly pairing with gourmet dishes or savoury delicacies, this Pinot Noir is a testament to fine winemaking excellence. Indulge in the sophistication and character that defines Wild Irishman, Tuturi Pinot Noir, Central Otago 2022.
In Bond£167.00 -
Emanating from the premium vineyards of Western Australia, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 is a true connoisseur's delight. This lustrous Cabernet Sauvignon has been matured in French oak barrels, offering an extraordinary balance of tannins and fruit profiles. The meticulous cultivation process under cool maritime-influenced climate imparts a distinctive depth to its full-bodied palate.
Characterised by intricate layers of well-ripened blackcurrants, delicate chocolate undertones and a hint of earthy complexity, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 exhibits great finesse. Ingeniously crafted by Woodside Valley Estate, a respected producer known for their attention to detail and unwavering quality standards, this wine is a testament to their expertise.
The 2004 vintage speaks volumes of the terroir's unique characteristics, making this wine a superb choice for those seeking a tasting experience replete with the essence of Australian vineyards. Indulge in the remarkable Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 - a wine that truly stands in a class of its own.
In Bond£223.00 -
Andrew Caillard MW (100)
Deep crimson. Lovely pure blackcurrant elderberry herb garden aromas with hints of espresso/ roasted chestnut notes. Beautiful concentrated wine with blackcurrant elderberry chinotto herb flavours, fine-grained and plentiful yet vigorous tannins, superb mid palate richness and integrated roasted chestnut/ cedar oak notes. Finishes chalky firm with a long inky/ graphite plume. Made for the long haul. Powerfully expressive yet unforced wine with superb vinosity, richness, density and volume. Superb. The fruit derives from the V&A (Victoria & Albert) and Nursery Vineyards, both located on classic terra rossa soils. From a dry, mild to warm growing season. Wait a few years to let it unfold, 2025-2050.In Bond£306.50 -
(6x75cl) 2020
The Real Review (97)
Impressively dense, dark, glass-staining colour with a strong tint of purple. Concentrated and superripe blackberry aromas, bright and intense and beautifully ripe with minimal herbal accents. Nuances of tar and licorice as well. It's full bodied and rich, concentrated and ample, with lashings of supple, fine-grained tannins and a long carry. A powerful wine but one that glides across the palate effortlessly. A beautiful and long-term cabernet.In Bond£444.00 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Halliday Wine Companion (98)
16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise.In Bond£414.00 -
Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 epitomises the elegance and finesse characteristic of premium cool-climate viticulture. Sourced from Yabby Lake’s prestigious Block 6 vineyard in the heart of the Yarra Valley, this Pinot Noir benefits from meticulously managed vine canopies and optimal ripening conditions. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving delicate aromatics and vibrant acidity. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, the wine develops subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing its intrinsic fruit profile. Crafted by the esteemed Yabby Lake winery, renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices, the 2017 vintage displays a nuanced palate of dark cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones, supported by silky tannins and a lingering finish. Perfectly poised to cellar or enjoy now, Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and terroir expression.
In Bond£108.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed leaving 25% whole bunches in traditional oak ferment, 3-4 days cold soak, 14 days on skins, pressed to French puncheons for 11 months maturation. Exceptional colour; super supple mouthfeel, a velvety mid-palate balanced by savoury/foresty glimpses on the finish. Retasted in '20, vibrant and still in primary mode with juicy pinot fruit. A drink-to date is largely irrelevant.In Bond£338.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed, partial whole berry adherence for stems, 4 days cold soak, wild-fermented, 14 days on skins, pressed to tight-grain puncheons for 8 months maturation. A layered palate interleaving velvety fruit and hints of forest on the long, medium-bodied palate. Trophy Best Pinot Noir Mornington Peninsula Wine Show.In Bond£125.00 -
(1x75cl) 2018
The Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 epitomises exceptional viticulture and craftsmanship from Tasmania’s renowned Yabby Lake region. Hand-harvested from meticulously selected blocks, the grapes benefit from the vineyard’s unique terroir, characterised by cool maritime influences and well-drained soils. Fermented using native yeast strains in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, this Pinot Noir undergoes a meticulous vinification process to preserve its elegance and complexity. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes while maintaining its vibrant fruit profile. Expertly produced by the acclaimed Yabby Lake Estate, known for sustainable farming practices and dedication to quality, the 2018 vintage exhibits a harmonious balance of ripe red berries, delicate floral nuances, and a refined earthy undertone. With its silky tannins and lingering finish, the Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 is a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking a quintessential expression of fine Australian Pinot Noir.
In Bond£80.00 -
James Suckling (98)
This is a strong cross-regional combination. Immense depth of olives, cassis, blue plums and iodine with blackberries, earthy nuances, fragrant baking spices and chocolate. The palate is beautifully assembled with deep-set tannins that carry long and majestic. Rich dark-fruit flavors. A landmark first release that will drink well for decades. Drink from 2024.In Bond£450.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19.5+)
2013 is a powerhouse, with density, structure and presence, but it is not a heavy wine! Instead, this is a cerebral, through-provoking number with layer upon layer of savoury, noble fruit. The differences between the yin and yang of these two vintages is also evident in the blend. 2012 was made of 79% Cabernet (of which 27% was Barossan and the lion’s share was from Coonawarra) and 21% Barossa Shiraz. In 2013 KG marries 55% Coonawarra Cabernet with 45% Barossa Shiraz. This is a more ‘historical-Aussie-claret-shaped’ wine and the extra splash of Barossa Shiraz helps to bring flesh to the upright, masterful Cabernet.In Bond£393.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.In Bond£186.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.In Bond£465.00 -
The Real Review (98)
This wine is continuing to build, and is now showing a glorious perfume, the aromatics similar to the 2012, which set a very high standard that this vintage reaches and arguably surpasses. Spicy and ultra-complex, with shiraz and Barossa both evident in the wine. It's very intense, taut and concentrated, as well as finely-textured and incredibly long in the mouth. A great wine of wonderful purity and harmony. (74% Coonawarra cabernet, 26% Barossa shiraz)In Bond£450.00 -
Matthew Jukes (20++)
You have seen my MoneyWeek article above and this time that is all you are getting. This wine WILL feature in my 100 Best Australian Wines Report 2021-22, which WILL be released this year. Forgive me for the capitals, but I have had enough of this pandemic and so I am pressing on regardless. You already know my score, but here it is again and it certainly bears repeating. But before I type this perfect number again I would like to inform you that I tasted 450 bottles of 2020 En Primeur Bordeaux this year and I would, of course, love you to download this Report from this website. The reason for mentioning this is that none of them warranted a perfect score, so I hope that this underlines just how remarkable it is that The Caley has done this twice in five years and also, with an average of 19.6/20, this accounts for my lofty headline at the top of this article.In Bond£186.00
