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news2026-08-04
Hayes Family Wines Stone Well Estate Shiraz 2024
  Sourced from a blend of estate Shiraz blocks across the certified organic Hayes Family Wines Stone Well vineyard and matured for 24 months in a mix of new and seasoned French oak, this is a beautifully rounded and approachable expression.  Generous blackberry fruit and dense plums provide plenty of flavour, while ripples of savoury complexity, think beef stock, soy, liquorice and earthy nuances, build layers of interest. Dark chocolate and chocolate brownie notes add richness without overwhelming the fruit. Softer, rounded edges make it immediately appealing, yet there's still a fine, sleek line running through the palate that keeps everything in balance. Give it some air and it opens beautifully, revealing greater harmony and depth. Delicious now, but it possesses all the hallmarks of a Barossa Shiraz that will continue to evolve gracefully with further bottle age. 94/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)29 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-08-04
Ross Hill Pinnacle Cabernet Franc 2024
  Often blended away and playing a reliable wingman role, Cabernet Franc doesn't always get the attention it deserves. Wines like this from Ross Hill make a compelling case to seek it out.  Pretty dried purple petals lift from the glass before classic varietal notes of red capsicum and fresh spearmint emerge, balanced by blackberries, blackcurrants and a gentle touch of chocolate. It starts out a little reserved, so give it some time to breathe and the aromas and flavours become far more expressive and inviting. There's a lovely savoury thread running throughout, making it feel composed, elegant and unmistakably Cabernet Franc. This is a wine that will reward patience rather than demanding attention. Better still, pour it alongside a slow-roasted lamb shoulder on a Sunday evening and you'll be in a happy place. 93/100 Region:  Orange RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)30 views
50-1502490-94ptscabernet-francorange
news2026-08-04
Ross Hill Pinnacle Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
  Initially tense and coiled, some patience pays dividends as this Ross Hill Pinnacle Cabernet Sauvignon slowly unfurls in the glass.  Classic varietal notes of blackberries, blackcurrants and plums emerge, joined by tobacco and a subtle hint of mocha that adds another layer of appeal. There's a touch of leafiness and vine tendrils early on, but given time to breathe, the wine finds a more harmonious rhythm with the savoury elements folding neatly into the fruit. It's not a Cabernet in a hurry, but those prepared to let it open will be rewarded with a balanced, satisfying expression that stays true to the variety. In all, it's a solid cool climate Cabernet. 92/100 Region:  Orange RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)29 views
50-1502490-94ptscabernet-sauvignonorange
news2026-08-03
Ross Hill Pinnacle Shiraz 2024
  From Orange, NSW, this Ross Hill Pinnacle Shiraz delivers a generous basket of dark berries and ripe plums that drive the palate. Wrapped in dark chocolate, caramel and cedar, there is a nostalgic hint of Kingston biscuits adding an indulgent twist. There's plenty of fruit and purpose here, yet it never feels cumbersome. Instead, it carries impressive drive from the get-go. A lift of peppery spice builds the tempo through the back half, keeping everything in check. Well composed with plenty of flavour and persistence, this is an honest and satisfying Shiraz. 92/100 Region:  Orange RRP:  $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
40-502490-94ptsorangeshiraz
news2026-07-30
Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz 2024
  Fortis means strength, and this Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz lives up to its name from the get-go.  Dark cherries and ripe plums form a powerful fruit core, layered with smoked meats, mocha and an unmistakable pepper steak savoury drive. Cracked black pepper and meat rub spices surge through the palate, adding comforting warmth and complexity without overwhelming the fruit. A firm sheet of drying, powdery tannins anchors everything in place, driving through to a persistent finish. Bold and robust, it strides out confidently. It's a Shiraz that embraces its savoury side while still offering plenty of generous McLaren Vale fruit. Throw a thick-cut steak on the coals and you'll soon discover this wine's purpose. 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
20-302490-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz
news2026-07-29
Byrne Farm Glenidle Vineyard Pinot Noir 2024
  A Pinot of purity, poise and quiet confidence, this Byrne Farm Glenidle Vineyard showcases exactly why the cool climes of Orange continue to demand more attention. Don't let the 12.8% alcohol fool you because this Pinot Noir punches well above its weight. Grown at 900 metres above sea level, the region's long, slow ripening season shines through, delivering remarkable flavour intensity while preserving its trademark elegance. A blend of five clones, it's sleek and refined from the outset, gliding effortlessly across the palate, highlighted by dark cherries, strawberries, blueberries and rhubarb. With a black tea-like texture, fine woodsy tannins and a gentle weave of spice create a beautifully composed frame. The finish dries out slowly, almost teasing you into the next sip, revealing more detail each time. There's no mistaking the elegance here, yet it never feels slight or underdone. Go here. It's a thoroughly charming wine that Pinot lovers will adore. 94/100 Region:  Or
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)14 views
50-1502490-94ptsorangepinot-noir
news2026-07-26
Hayes Family Wines Block 1 Shiraz 2024
  From the Hayes Family Wines certified organic vineyard in Stone Well, planted in the 1940s and rooted deep into sandstone and clay, this is a gloriously generous Barossa expression that never loses its composure.  Blackberries, dense plums and liquorice bullets drive the fruit profile, while Chinese five spice, cloves and cedar add layers of savoury intrigue. It frolics across the palate like a big ball of deliciousness, carrying impressive concentration without becoming weighty. Baked raspberries and dark cherries emerge late, joined by a crack of black pepper that elevates the finish. Long and sustained, this is a Shiraz built for the long haul, it will evolve gracefully over the next decade or more. 93/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $70 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-25
Hayes Family Wines Hillside Shiraz 2024
If you're chasing an old school Barossa Shiraz with no shortage of flavour, this Hayes Family Wines Hillside Shiraz delivers in spades.  From the certified organic Hayes Hillside Block in Stone Well, it's dense, rich and wonderfully concentrated from the outset. An intriguing touch of apricot kernel brings almost Roussanne-like vibes before dark plums, rich cherries and black fruits take command. Layers of caramel, dark chocolate and cloves build depth, with hints of caramel slice adding an indulgent twist. Woodsy and earthy spices weave confidently through the palate, while the finish seems to go on forever, driven by remarkable persistence and moreish appeal. This is a wine that stands tall, embracing the generous, full-flavoured Barossa style without apology. Lovers of bigger, richer Shiraz will feel right at home here. *Due for release October 2026 95/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $125 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Insta
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
50-1502495ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-23
Gilberts Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
  A fabulous Cabernet from Western Australia's Mount Barker region, this Gilberts Reserve absolutely hums with a good decant.  At first it's tightly wound and firm, but give it some air and it begins to reveal its true persona. Blackberries, blackcurrants and black jubes form a generous fruit core, while passata and charred capsicum bring an unmistakably savoury edge. Dusty tannins provide plenty of grip, finishing with a drying, puckering feel that builds moreishness. As it opens with time, the fruit becomes more expressive and the savoury notes settle. Thoroughly enjoyable, this one deserves an occasion. Better still, make the occasion with this front and centre. 94/100 Region:  Mount Barker RRP:  $75 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views
50-1502490-94ptscabernet-sauvignonmount-barker
news2026-07-21
Usher Tinkler Death By Semillon 2024
  Forget everything you think you know about Semillon because this Death By Semillon from Usher Tinkler happily tears up the rule book.  Funky, confident and packed with swagger, it's the sort of wine you should be asking for in the coolest bars from Fitzroy to Surry Hills and Brisbane's Fortitude Valley.  Ginger beer, elderflower and yellow flowers jump from the glass, joined by a delightfully edgey, light cheese note that somehow just works. Green mango, dehydrated pineapple, lemon juice and lemon rind keep things vibrant, while sheets of green tea-like texture bring plenty of intrigue. Don't serve it too cold or you'll miss the layers that make this so compelling. Boundary pushing yet thoughtfully composed, this is an effortlessly trendy Semillon with serious personality. The cool kids will be all over it and for good reason. 93/100 Region:  Hunter Valley RRP:  $33 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,&nb
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
30-402490-94ptshunter-valleysemillon
news2026-07-21
Holm Oak Shiraz 2024
  Maintaining the high standard of vintages gone before, this Holm Oak Shiraz 2024 is another very good release. It has a savoury heart that beats loud, layering dark cherries with charred steak, cracked black pepper and subtle spice. Fine, grippy tannins provide a slightly firm feel in its youth, though it noticeably softens and opens over a few days of tasting. Medium-bodied, there's good composure throughout, with the balance and structure suggesting it will continue to evolve nicely over the medium term. It's not about blockbuster power, but rather cool climate poise and savoury detail. Another dependable release, it's a big thumbs up from me. 93/100 Region:  Tasmania RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views
50-1502490-94ptsshiraztasmania
news2026-07-19
3 Rings Cabernet Shiraz 2024
  A 60/40 blend, this 3 Rings Cabernet Shiraz is a great take on the traditional Aussie claret. Brand new and with no bottle image as yet, the only difference from the image above is that the label is green, not blue. Juicy blackberries and black currants are parcelled up by woodsy and fruit bun spices. The fruit pins itself to the mid-palate and refuses to move with shards of dark chocolate raising their hand. A long and sustained finish follows capping off a clever, budget-friendly wine. A big thumbs up from me. 90/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $19 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views
15-202490-94ptsbargainbarossablends
news2026-07-19
3 Ring Shiraz 2024
  Quite the excitement machine, you'd be forgiven for thinking this costs far more than its $19 price tag. A quality Shiraz for under $20? That's a win. Dense, concentrated fruit is the headline act, yet there's an appealing suppleness throughout. Dark plums, blackberries and ripe blueberries deliver a generous core of flavour, while a ripple of spice carries the wine with a respectable length and width to a persistent finish. Rich, satisfying and packed with value, this is an easy recommendation for anyone hunting a red under the $20 mark. 91/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $19 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views
15-202490-94ptsbargainbarossashiraz
news2026-07-19
Paringa Shiraz 2024
  An easy-going, approachable Shiraz with smooth lines. The bonus is you get change from a lobster - winning! Mind you, most don't use cash as much anymore, so a lobster ($20 note) is probably not the best reference. Alas, good gear this. Respectable palate weight from dark plums and berry fruits, chocolate brownie and soft spices. There is a polish about it too, which aids its smooth, rendered edges, elevating its approachability. Top stuff for the asking price, too. Bang the bargain drum! 90/100 Region:  Murray Darling RRP:  $18 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
15-202490-94ptsbargainmurray-darlingshiraz
news2026-07-12
Arila Gardens Single Vineyard Shiraz 2024
  This is Barossa Shiraz at its most seductive. Dark, plush, and composed, it doesn't bludgeon, it envelops. It opens with a generous swell of mulberry compote and ripe blueberries. The dark, glossy fruit brings indulgence and finesse in equal doses. A luxurious undercurrent of dark chocolate coats the palate with decadence, while a flash of clove brings lift and intrigue. Delicately handled spice walks beside the fruit elevating the harmony and joy. Fine sheets of tannin glide through the palate adding further delight and shape to the structure, with the thumbprint of dark fruit planting itself on a long and persistent finish. A compelling expression of Barossa Shiraz from a producer you ought to get to know, this will reward for a decade+. 96/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $90 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views
50-1502495ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-12
Bethany Blue Quarry Bethanien Sth Vineyard Shiraz 2024
  This is the kind of Shiraz that quietly wins you over rather than demanding your attention. From vines planted in 1992, the fruit has a lovely polish and sheen, wrapped in a silky, delicate frame.  Perfumed aromas of violet and red roses lift from the glass before char and mocha add a savoury edge. Juicy raspberries, raspberry rope, cherries and dense plums fill out the palate, with subtle earthy nuances providing extra depth. Firm, dusty tannins give shape without overwhelming the fruit, while a long trail of black pepper and woodsy spice stretches out across a persistent finish. Elegant yet flavoursome, this is a beautifully composed Shiraz that balances perfume, fruit and savoury detail with ease. The more you sip, the more it draws you in. 93/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-12
Bethany Blue Quarry Across The Creek Vineyard Shiraz 2024
  Across The Creek Vineyard may not sound like the result of an exhausting naming workshop, but this Shiraz comes from Bethany’s highest vineyard, perched at 300 metres and planted in 1998, and it delivers a refined and rather stylish expression.  Sleek and silky, it's a Shiraz that favours finesse over power. Dark plums and black fruits lead the charge, with well-integrated oak layering in dark chocolate and savoury woodsy nuances. A fine rub of spice and polished tannins keeps everything in check, while the tightly wound mid-palate hints that there's more to come with a little patience. Dusty tannins stain the palate and cling to a persistent finish, building a moreishness that has you reaching back for another sip. Better still, put this alongside a roast beef dinner and you'll quickly appreciate just how comfortably it settles into its stride. 92/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instag
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)23 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-11
Ballandean Estate Opera Block Shiraz 2024
  The Opera Block at Ballandean Estate is just behind the winery and is named as such after the regular Opera in the Vineyards concerts were held on an adjacent stage. Sadly, this event is no more but the Shiraz and Chardonnay from these vines keep belting out the tunes. This is a beautiful expression of cool-climate Shiraz. Medium-bodied, it opens with a fragrant dusting of black pepper spice before rolling into notes of barbecued steak, gentle char and dark plum fruit. Supple blackberries bring lift and generosity to the palate, balancing the wine’s more savoury feels. There’s a firmish tension on entry that initially keeps things tightly wound, but a little time in the glass reveals a more relaxed and expressive side. The fruit broadens, the spice settles and the wine finds its groove. What I particularly like is the acidity. It brings life and energy, keeping everything vibrant and adding an extra dimension to the finish. Better still, it suggests this will reward further bott
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views
40-502490-94ptsgranite-beltshiraz
news2026-07-10
Domain Paul Mas Coté Mas Syrah 2024
  From the south of France comes this Syrah that delivers stylistic simplicity. It opens with an aroma that immediately brings to mind a chocolate brownie packet mix before darker notes of blackberries and blackcurrants emerge. A thread of granite-like minerality moves throughout while a fine veil of black pepper delivers the variety's signature. The palate is straightforward but good enough, led by dark fruit, cocoa dust and a savoury edge that adds a little extra interest. Drying and puckering tannins draw a tight line through to the finish, offering a quiet nod to ensure that food sits by its side. A hearty meal would soften those edges and allow the fruit and savoury elements to settle into a more comfortable groove. In all, there’s a simple pleasure to be found here.  88/100 Region:  Languedoc, France RRP:  $18 Source: Sample Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views
15-202485-89ptsfrancesyrah
news2026-07-09
Bethany Blue Quarry Contours Vineyard Grenache 2024
  Sleek, sexy and carrying a little more depth than first impressions suggest, this Bethany Blue Quarry Contours Vineyard Grenache is immediately engaging.  Coming from 50+ year-old vines, much younger than its Manse Vineyard sibling, I couldn't get enough of this.  Softly spiced dark cherries reign supreme, while expressive raspberries bring a pretty, juicy lift that keeps everything bright and energetic. There’s an attractive savoury-sweet interplay at work too, with a flash of dark chocolate and even a suggestion of Cherry Ripe tucked amongst the fruit. It’s a wine that feels slinky and curvaceous, flowing effortlessly across the palate without ever sacrificing flavour intensity. The real highlight is the length. The fruit extends with confidence, and there’s no denying the juicy factor that makes each sip so inviting. Faint silty tannins provide just enough structure to frame the generosity without interrupting the wine’s natural charm. This is one of those Grenaches
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views
50-1502495ptsbarossagrenache
news2026-07-08
Bethany Blue Quarry Manse Vineyard Grenache 2024
  Not as expensive as its Contours Vineyard stablemate, this Manse Vineyard Grenache offers a fuller, weightier expression from the outset. From 1924 planted vines that dig their feet into clay soils, darker fruits and berries lift from the glass wth scents of dried red petals, earthy nuances and a dusting of dark chocolate. The palate follows suit, bringing dark cherry and plum fruit with an earthy drive that keeps everything grounded. There is more heft here compared to more delicate expressions of Grenache with the fruit carrying good concentration and drive. Neat and composed, it comes together comfortably rather than spectacularly with the fruit and savoury elements working in unison. A solid, enjoyable Grenache that goes about its work with little fuss and drinks well. 92/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)25 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossagrenache
news2026-07-07
Ballandean Estate Nebbiolo 2024
  You could say that this Nebbiolo from Ballandean Estate is an Aussie take on the famed, drink-now Langhe Nebbiolo style. Alluring aromas and savoury complexity capture the essence of the variety. Dried red petals, orange peel and dark cherries lead the charge and are ably supported by cola, char and smokey meats. The palate stays true to the variety with Nebbiolo's signature drying, powdery tannins that provide structure and character without overwhelming its approachability. That floral lift and citrus peel nuance have me circling back. In all, it's a respectable, compelling and authentic take that is ready to drink now to the medium term. Bravo. 92/100 Region:  Granite Belt RRP:  $44 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
40-502490-94ptsgranite-beltnebbiolo
news2026-07-05
Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz 2024
  A fair chunk of oak plays its hand with this Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz. I wasn't overly surprised to learn after tasting and compiling this review that this sees 60% new French oak for 14 months. That high percentage is telling, particularly with a rampant coconut oak note. Some menthol gets in on the aroma profile too and refuses to budge. Hmm. Dark plums, blackberries, cherry liqueur, cola, stripped bark and black tea add plenty of character, but it's hard to shake the oak. Perhaps time will help. 91/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $42 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
40-502490-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz
news2026-06-28
Vinteloper Rogue Pinot Noir 2024
  This is an uber cool Pinot that evokes wine bar beats with the lights turned down low. Some wines seek analytics and scores, yet others, like this, seek companionship, cosy corners and echoes of laughter. Splash this around liberally and you'll know what I mean. David Bowley has been sourcing fruit from this vineyard for some time, but these barrels showed some 'pixie dust', so he says. From the Kuipto district of the Adelaide Hills, it sees French oak for ten months (35% new). Dark cherries, blackberry leaf, orange peel, cured meats and bacon hock make a mighty first impression. Waves of savoury nuances follow and cascade effortlessly in the form of dried leaves, twigs, tilled earth, a faint hint of pine needle and mushroom compost. Delicate spices wrap themselves around the frame and drive long. Although a touch linear on the palate, the use of whole bunches is evident with that savoury thumbprint. Perhaps the best way to consider this wine in three words is savoury, effortles
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
50-1502490-94ptsadelaide-hillspinot-noir

Hayes Family Wines Stone Well Estate Shiraz 2024

Ross Hill Pinnacle Cabernet Franc 2024

Ross Hill Pinnacle Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Ross Hill Pinnacle Shiraz 2024

Vin Sol Fortis Shiraz 2024

Byrne Farm Glenidle Vineyard Pinot Noir 2024

Hayes Family Wines Block 1 Shiraz 2024

Hayes Family Wines Hillside Shiraz 2024

Gilberts Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Usher Tinkler Death By Semillon 2024

Holm Oak Shiraz 2024

3 Rings Cabernet Shiraz 2024

3 Ring Shiraz 2024

Paringa Shiraz 2024

Arila Gardens Single Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Bethany Blue Quarry Bethanien Sth Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Bethany Blue Quarry Across The Creek Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Ballandean Estate Opera Block Shiraz 2024

Domain Paul Mas Coté Mas Syrah 2024

Bethany Blue Quarry Contours Vineyard Grenache 2024

Bethany Blue Quarry Manse Vineyard Grenache 2024

Ballandean Estate Nebbiolo 2024

Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Vinteloper Rogue Pinot Noir 2024