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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 views40-502490-94ptsorangeshiraz - news
Holm Oak Pinot Noir 2025
When you see this Holm Oak Pinot Noir on the shelf, you know you won't lose. Such a reliable and soothing bottle of delish, it's a neat cuddle for the insides. Dark cherry and strawberry fruit skips about joyously with a lick of charcuterie board, tilled earth and black tea as woodsy and earthy spices mop up the tail. It glides about effortlessly and draws out to a sustained finish with well-handled acidity keeping things in check. Share this with your love, pour and chat. You'll be emptying it in no time. Quality cool climate Pinot. 92/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)15 views40-502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania - news
Gilberts Reserve Shiraz 2023
Made for long, contemplative nights by the fire, check this Gilberts Reserve Shiraz. Dark chocolate torte, charred steak, charcoal and cracked black pepper set a deep savoury tone, while the medium to full-bodied palate carries impressive authority. The fruit has a generous, almost stewed character, though it doesn't feel tired or overdone. Instead, it reinforces the wine's richness and warmth. An array of exotic spices threads confidently through the palate, adding intrigue and complexity. Of note, it's the length, drive and persistence that leave the biggest impression, with those flavours refusing to let go long on a persistent finish. A very tidy Shiraz that embraces generosity without losing its composure, pour a glass, kick back and settle into the evening one sip at a time. 92/100 Region: Mount Barker RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views40-502390-94ptsmount-barkershiraz - news
Ross Hill Pinnacle Series Chardonnay 2025
This Pinnacle Series Chardonnay from Ross Hill Wines jumps out of the blocks with confidence. A generous opening of caramel drops, brûlée and French pastry aromas offer plenty of early appeal. White fleshed nectarine, barbecued peach and pineapple husk build the fruit profile, with a squeeze of lemon juice and a faint cashew nuttiness adding complexity. Grapefruit and a lemon sherbet tang inject freshness and keep things lively. There's good flavour intensity up front, although the mid-palate loses momentum a little sooner than expected as the acidity takes charge and shifts the spotlight. The bones of a very good Chardonnay are all here, but it just needs a touch more focus and harmony through the middle to bring everything together. Even so, there's much to like and it offers enough promise to suggest even better things are to come. 91/100 Region: Orange RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , Linke
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views40-502590-94ptschardonnayorange - news
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)20 views40-502490-94ptsgranite-beltshiraz - news
Grant Nash Mourvedre Grenache Shiraz 2022
A slightly different take on the classic GSM, this blend from Grant Nash Wines hands the keys to Mourvèdre and lets its earthy, meaty personality rule the house. The 46/35/19 mix delivers plenty of character, leaning into savoury territory while still carrying enough fruit to keep things flowing. Dusty earth, baked blueberries and dark plums emerge first, setting an inviting tone. The palate is coated with black fruit while savoury elements play a neat supporting role. Dried herbs weave through the middle palate, adding complexity as fine peppery spices and hints of meat rub spices bring a further dimension. Despite its darker and more savoury drive, it moves and sways about with ease, carrying its flavour with a surprising amount of grace. This isn't a wine that asks too many questions. It simply turns up, delivers plenty of satisfaction and gets on with the job. Proper Friday night footy wine. 93/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views40-502290-94ptsgsmmclaren-valemourvedre - news
Vinteloper Shiraz 2025
The back label is emblazoned with the words "Not the Shiraz your dad drinks", and it wouldn't be. But I reckon you could convert him over to this ripping expression from Vinteloper. What a cracker! Bunchy and savoury notes set the tone and I'm all in. So expressive and moreish, there is a sip-slow vibe about its swagger, but I can't help but lean into the plums, mulberry compote, shards of dark chocolate and fine sheets of spice that are rippled through the palate. There is a fabulous tension between the fruit density and savoury pleasure that drives through to an elongated finish. Above all, it's that complexity that has me fixated. I'd comfortably categorise this as "Fitzroy piss" - those trendy Fitzroy and Brunswick bars and restaurants would smash through bottles of this stuff all in the name of pleasure and delight. Go here. 93/100 Region: Adelaide Hills RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , Li
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)15 views40-502590-94ptsadelaide-hillsshiraz - news
Grant Nash Lunch GSM 2023
Affectionately called the Lunch Wine, this GSM from Grant Nash Wines is a delicious yin and yang balance of fruit and savoury delight. Dark fruit and raspberry rope notes get things moving up front, with layers of cured meats, pan juices, stripped bark and meat rub spices adding complexity and depth. The palate walks with impressive poise and a moreish length that urges another sip. Equally comfortable alongside a charcuterie board or plate of barbecued meats, this is a GSM that delivers flavour, texture and drinkability in equal doses. Big love. Go here. 93/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views40-502390-94ptsblendsgrenachegsm - news
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 views40-502490-94ptsgranite-beltnebbiolo - news
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)16 views40-502490-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz - news
Gilberts Wines Estate Chardonnay 2025
From Mount Barker comes this barrel-fermented Chardonnay from Gilberts Wines. A curious thing that caught my attention was the scents of wet brown paper and a musty note. Odd... Tinned pineapple, bruised golden apple and firm green tea-like phenolics are the driving forces. The palate is clipped and doesn't reach as much as hoped. I'd prefer others, particularly at this price point. 85/100 Region: Mount Barker RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views40-502585-89ptschardonnaymount-barker - news
Grant Nash Grenache 2024
With a persona edging on robust with some generosity, this Grant Nash Grenache opens with a warm, spice-laden frame that sets the tone. Inviting aromas of baked raspberries, red currants and ripe red cherries lead the charge, all wrapped up in a neat parcel that echoes Cherry Ripe slice. Of note, it strikes a mean balance between fruit intensity and a savoury intrigue. Exotic spices weave about the palate with ease offering a neat, rustic, earthy edge. Perhaps this is the splash of Mourvedre talking? Some meatiness tucks in beneath, too. In all, it calls for food and I reckon it would smash burger night with ease. 92/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views40-502490-94ptsgrenachemclaren-vale - news
Samantha May Chenin Blanc 2025
Another beauty from Samantha May Wines, this Chenin Blanc comes from a place you'd least expect - Gundagai. Fermented in a clay amphora, it sees time in a mix of seasoned Austrian and French oak. Expressive aromas from the outset of beeswax, honeysuckle and yellow peach skin get my attention. There is a curiosity that builds with intrigue as I taste, and I get the sense that it is an enigmatic character of sorts, almost resisting full disclosure. A gentle, rich presence is partnered by a restrained drive with almond meal, pie apple and nougat creaminess building further delight through the palate. It gives off a distinct sense of autumnal appeal with a green apple-esque crunch on close. Not to be outdone, subtle tonic edge extends the textural appeal, reaching long through to a moreish and contemplative finish. And that's precisely it, it's a wine of complexity, interest and contemplation. Beautifully done. 93/100 Region: Gundagai RRP: $42 Source: Sample Winery Websi
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views40-502590-94ptschenin-blancgundagai - news
Arila Gardens Moppa GSM 2024
From the Moppa sub-region of the Barossa comes this Arila Gardens GSM ready to snuggle up to on a winter's night. Grown at 300 metres above sea level on a mix of ironstone and quartz soils, the vine material contributing to this blend is up to 130 years of age. A blend of 64/34/2, the fruit is sourced from two sites. A vivid purple hue greets the eye with a core of mulberries, blueberries and cherry fruit, not to mention a neat raspberry cameo. Silky with a terrific shape, savoury nuances from cola, soy, black tea and puffs of earthiness play respectable supporting roles. Dusty tannins are scattered through a sustained finish - that length is certainly a highlight and demands another sip. Once again, a great release from winemaker Adam Clay. 93/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views40-502490-94ptsbarossagrenachegsm - news
Samantha May Nebbiolo 2025
Wines like this from Samantha May are why I love doing what I do. Is it the best Nebbiolo I've ever had? No. But do I want to keep on topping up my glass? Hell yes! Based in Mudgee, Samantha Sutherland is behind her label Samantha May Wines, sourcing fruit from a few regions around New South Wales. This Nebbiolo comes from Gundagai, a region not known for producing Grand Cru wines, and perhaps that's the perception we need to change in this Australian wine landscape. If the soil is right, the climate is good and the making is great, does it matter? Importantly, though, this wine needs a decant. I say that because when I opened it and tasted it immediately after a few swirls, a potato sack and damp type aroma arrested my attention and focus. I was looking at a number of wines at the time, so I parked it for the next day and what a metamorphosis it underwent! Silky, dancy and damn delicious. Woah! Layered with interest, think cherries and cherry pips, red plums, orange peel, black
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views40-502590-94ptsgundagainebbiolo - news
Head Wines Old Vine Grenache 2024
A blend of three sites with significant age, this is an excellent expression of Barossa Grenache. Sourced from a dry-grown 1940s block in Pewsey Vale with smaller contributions from the 1880s planted Riebke site in Ebenezer and the 1858 planted Stonegarden site in Springton, this is certainly a great exercise in the sum of the parts. Awash with juicy and vibrant red fruit, red currants, raspberries and squishy blueberries make their mark. Time in the glass sees raspberry rope, rhubarb and orange peel emerge. Dangerously silky, a smattering of fine exotic spice reaches long onto a persistent and seductively moreish finish. For 40 bucks, this is a beauty. Bravo! 94/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views40-502490-94ptsbarossagrenache - news
Lyons Will Élevage Riesling 2025
Winemaker Renata Morello suggests that this is "for the Riesling lover as it is all about texture and depth of flavour". She is not wrong either - the interest is captivating. Wild fermented in seasoned oak and seeing full malo, it spends nine months on lees. My interest is piqued on opening with scents of lemon myrtle, lemon sherbet, concentrated lemon juice and lemon cordial. These flow onto the palate delivering a thought-provoking mouthfeel and a delightful cleansing acidity. Off-dry with 7.6g/L of residual sugar, the balance and poise demonstrate this producer's class. Plonk a bottle on the lazy Susan and this will annihilate the banquet at a Chinese restaurant. 93/100 Region: Macedon Ranges RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)15 views40-502590-94ptsmacedon-rangesriesling - news
Arila Gardens Moppa Saperavi 2024
If this Saperavi is posing the question, then a Bistecca steak laid over glowing coals is the answer. Just let the char, heft and primal swagger meet head on as you sit back and indulge. At first, on opening, it needed a little coaxing to come and play. Blueberries emerge alongside purple florals and a dried violet perfume. Give it some time and it unfurls like a silk sheet drawn slowly across a table. A fine thread of spice draws out quietly without raising its voice. Plums and blue fruits do their work in the background with a fine dried herb cameo. Voluptuous tannins add flex with their powdery texture as they dry out ever so gently. In all, it's not as expressive as the debut 2022 Saperavi from Arila Gardens that came across this tasting bench, but it's a most respectable drink and demands attention in its own right. 92/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views40-502490-94ptsbarossasaperavi - news
Jericho Bracken Vineyard Grenache 2024
I reckon this Bracken Vineyard Grenache would shine beside food. Irrespective, it's once again a very good expression of the variety from the McLaren Vale sub-region of Blewitt Springs. Made with 25% whole bunches and seeing 12 months seasoned French oak, it opens with dark cherries, strawberries and baked blueberries. Shards of dark chocolate and ripples of raspberry jam give off those classic old-school Wagon Wheel vibes. Puffs of earthiness and undergrowth are parcelled up by an array of woodsy and barbecue meat rub spices that linger. Soft, silty tannins have the last word. Great stuff. 93/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $42 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views40-502490-94ptsgrenachemclaren-vale - news
Turkey Flat Grenache 2023
When you think of Barossa Valley Grenache, Turkey Flat is never far away from the conversation. What a joy it was to take a look at this 2023 and the brand new 2024 alongside one another. Raspberries, strawberries, red currants, orange peel and apricot kernel light up the stage with a hint of cola for good measure. A flicker of eucalyptus piques my interest, but that can't be seen on day two when this nestles into a neat groove. It's a wine with more structure and body compared to the pretty, silky, elegant thing that is the 2024 . Fine tannins are pliable with the length highlighted by fruit bun spices. Grenache lovers who appreciate a little more oomph, this is right in your wheelhouse. 94/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views40-502390-94ptsbarossagrenache - news
St Johns Wine Round Puzzle Cabernet Malbec Merlot 2022
Bold and unapologetically rustic, this Bordeaux-style blend offers power and savoury depth in equal doses. Opening with a rush of drunken plums, ripe blackberries and evocative Black Forest cake, savoury notes of charred wood, barbecue smoke and crushed granite build anticipation. Firm and muscular to taste, the dense fruit is wrapped in a sheet of tense, dusty tannins. Structured rather than plush, layers of black pepper spice and charcoal peer through the mid-palate. Some granite-like minerality adds detail, offering tension and focus that carries through to a dry, gripping finish. Sit this beside a slab of protein and you're winning. It's nicely done. 91/100 Region: Blackwood Valley RRP: $40 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views40-502290-94ptsblackwood-valleyblendscabernet-sauvignon - news
Tim Smith Old Vine Grenache 2025
It would be uncouth to bathe in this, but I'd do it anyway. Svelte, silky, elegant, this is another superb Grenache from Tim Smith. Like the Mataro 2025 , this release has had a facelift with Old Vine Grenache now across the label. Insanely delicious, it slides down with gracious ease. Waves of blueberries, mulberries, cherries and red currants keep the fruit profile buoyant. Attractive aromas of purple and red petals flow through to the palate, adding a delightful mouth perfume. A shimmer of cured meats, orange peel and dried herbs adds precision and savoury interest. Superfine tannins are delicate and pliable, folding into every crevice of the mouth. This is a beauty in every sense. Hands down, it's an enthusiastic recommendation. 95/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)13 views40-502595ptsbarossagrenache - news
Tim Smith Old Vine Mataro 2025
Plentiful, gracious, delicate and silky describe this excellent Tim Smith Mataro best. Incredible value for $45, it comes from 130+ year old vines. The label has taken on a little facelift, too, and is now known as the Old Vine Mataro. Mulberries, blackberries, and blueberries are pinned to the core with an array of savoury pleasures moving and swaying throughout. Pretty scents of dried purple flowers and berry pie aromas slide into the flavour profile. Earthy nuances, dried herbs, cured meats and pan juices join forces in a seamless waltz. Soft woodsy spices reach long, leading to a persistent finish. Oh, this is a peach. Go here! 95/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $45 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)13 views40-502595ptsbarossamataro - news
Lyons Will Greenways Hill Gamay 2025
The debut commercial release of the Greenways Hill Gamay comes from a new estate vineyard that is planted on the next ridge over from the winery. I must say, it's a glorious vista looking out to that vineyard from the cellar door. I don't have an up-to-date copy of the bottle pic, which has Greenways Hill across the front in large font, but you get the idea... Planted 510 metres above in 2021 to eight Gamay clones to bring diversity and fill the palate, this is a juicy, slurpable thing that does show its youth. Having said that, strap in for a thrilling ride, because if this is the start of the journey, brace for where things are headed. Fine, with a greeny tinge on opening as a result of its youth, I can see this bringing the hype as the vines mature. Awash with purple fruits and blueberries, there is a delicate lick of Campari that oozes appeal. The mouthfeel is lacey which heightens its approachability, and particularly on the second and third day of tasting, those gree
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)14 views40-502590-94ptsgamaymacedon-ranges