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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 views50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptscabernet-francorange - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptscabernet-sauvignonorange - news
Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 2017
Rich, generous and unmistakably Geoff Merrill in style, it embraces old school generosity and wears its heart on its sleeve. Dense plums and blackberries flood the palate, joined by dark chocolate, soy, beef stock and an indulgent caramel slice note that adds another layer of richness. Thirty months in American and French oak leaves a firm imprint, but there's more than enough fruit concentration to carry it through. Cloves and exotic spices linger long, while dusty, drying tannins provide good shape through to a persistent finish. A full-blooded, uncompromising Shiraz with real presence, lovers of bold, traditionally styled reds will find plenty to admire, particularly with a hearty meal and several years of bottle age already under its belt. Well played. 93/100 Region: McLaren Vale RRP: $65 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views50-1501790-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz - news
Holm Oak Hotshot Pinot Noir 2022
A captivating, complex and alluring Pinot Noir, this Hotshot is Holm Oak's flagship and it is more than worthy of that title. Built around a large portion of clone 777, complemented by D4V2 and MV6 (45/36/18), with the use of whole bunches and 14 months in French oak, it delivers remarkable delicacy and poise. Tea tree and pine needles introduce an alluring savoury edge before red and dark cherries and ripe strawberries glide across the palate. Subtle dark chocolate notes add depth, while fine spices quietly mingle with the fruit. There's a beautiful sense of restrained tension here, creating a platform for effortless drinkability before carrying the wine into a long, sustained finish. Every sip reveals another layer, balancing elegance, purity and composure with ease. A beautifully handled Pinot Noir that leaves a lasting impression without ever raising its voice. 95/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $130 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine he
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views50-1502295ptspinot-noirtasmania - news
Holm Oak Fearless Pinot Noir 2025
No new oak and no whole bunches in the ferment are the keys to success with this glorious Fearless Pinot Noir from Holm Oak. Expressive red and purple florals rise up effortlessly from the glass before a savoury undercurrent of cured meat, pine needles and mushroom compost adds wonderful complexity. Blueberries and ripe red plums provide a vibrant fruit core, beautifully framed by fine texture and silky tannins that glide across the palate with ease. A gentle dusting of spice lingers in the background, never interrupting the wine's graceful flow. Everything feels harmonious, elegant and wonderfully composed, balancing perfume, fruit and savoury detail in equal measure. It's the sort of Pinot that quietly captivates rather than shouts for attention - yes! Big love. 94/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $65 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views50-1502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptsorangepinot-noir - news
Holm Oak The Wizard Chardonnay 2025
Composed and classy, I love this Chardonnay's swagger as it confidently strides out. The Wizard is Holm Oak's flagship white and it nails the brief. White-fleshed stonefruit leads supported by cashew and nougat notes that immediately add complexity. Lemon juice, canned pineapple and brioche weave effortlessly through the palate, while vanilla cream and caramel drops contribute a creamy richness without tipping the balance. The influence of malolactic fermentation (65%) and French oak (65% new) is thoughtfully handled, adding texture and depth rather than dominating the fruit. Rather than chasing the chiselled, high-acid style of many modern Chardonnays, this builds a beautifully rounded palate shape that feels complete and oozes satisfaction. A grapefruit tang on the finish elevates the finish, keeping everything fresh and focused. 95/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $65 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram ,&
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views50-1502595ptschardonnaytasmania - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
Yelland & Papps Limited Cuvée Grenache 2025
I've had a lot of Grenache in my time, and I must say, this Yelland & Papps Limited Cuvée sits on top of the pile. Wow! What an incredible, precise and insatiably delicate release this is. There's a wonderful sense of Pinosity here, reinforcing the old saying that Grenache is everything Pinot wants to be. Sourced from dry-grown 1956 Vine Vale vines rooted in sandy soils and matured for 11 months in French oak (32% new), it's an effortlessly elegant expression. Juicy blueberries, blueberry coulis, mulberries and red cherries glide across the palate, with a fine smear of squishy raspberries bringing irresistible charm. The superfine tannin profile is utterly seductive, allowing the fruit to float gracefully through the mouth before subtle cola notes emerge with air. Delicate spices wrap themselves around the fruit and linger across a finish that is both persistent and calming. I thoroughly enjoyed watching this evolve over several days, confirming it has plenty of life a
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views50-1502595ptsbarossagrenache - news
Byrne Farm Limited Release Shiraz Pinot Noir 2025
I do love how the Hunter Valley alumni have spread their wings across the Australian wine landscape and given the old Hunter River Burgundy blend some serious reach. Cool climate regions seem to be thriving with it at present, with the Yarra Valley a hot spot, and now Jeff Byrne has entered the fray with this superb Shiraz Pinot Noir from his patch in Orange. It's not Byrne's first rodeo, with previous vintages clearing the fence with a home run. Cool, composed and considered, much like its maker, this is a wine well worth seeking out. Silky, vibrant and dangerously moreish, it glides effortlessly across the palate with an elegance that's hard to resist. A purple flower and violet perfume skips from the glass before pristine blue and purple fruits flood the palate, delivering purity and freshness in equal measure. A subtle dusting of spice adds just enough intrigue without interrupting the flow. It absolutely oozes cool climate character, balancing energy with poise and finesse.
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views50-1502595ptsblendsorangepinot-noir - news
Byrne Farm Single Barrel Chardonnay 2025
Ooft! This is the sort of Chardonnay that proves Orange deserves far more attention than it gets. Sourced from a single 2500L barrel, it's a beautifully composed wine that balances flavour, texture and finesse with ease. White fleshed nectarine, yellow grapefruit and subtle licks of pineapple are joined by a splash of Bickford's lemon cordial. Cashews, nougat and wafer biscuit notes add complexity, while delicate vanilla cream and custard powder bring a gentle, creamy edge. Fine ginger spice threads its way through the palate, complementing the superb textural detail at its core. There's impressive length and drive, yet it all feels effortless, measured and harmonious. This is Orange Chardonnay firing on all cylinders, and if the region isn't already on your radar, wines like this are exactly why it should be. Excellent. 96/100 Region: Orange RRP: $60 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and&
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views50-1502595ptschardonnayorange - news
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 views50-1502495ptsbarossashiraz - news
Hayes Family Wines Block 2 Grenache 2025
Big love for this excellent Hayes Family Wines Block 2 Grenache made under the keen eye of winemaker Andrew Seppelt. Juicy and vibrant, it pops and slaps. Absolutely delicious! From Hayes Family Wines' certified organic 1948 plantings, this tiny two barrel release is a stunning expression of Barossa Grenache after yields were slashed by 85%. Bursting with energy, raspberries, raspberry rope, redcurrants and red apple skin race across the palate, with a crunchy red apple acidity keeping everything lively. Give it a swirl and blueberries emerge, adding another layer of intrigue. Super fine tannins provide a delicate grip without interrupting the flow, leaving the wine sleek, pliable and effortlessly drinkable. It's packed with interest yet dances with freshness, making each sip even more compelling than the last. Delicious and ridiculously moreish, go here. 95/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow:&n
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views50-1502595ptsbarossagrenache - news
Hayes Family Wines Estate Mataro 2025
Quality Mataro here from Hayes Family Wines. Lovers of the variety will find plenty to embrace, especially if they're prepared to give it a little time to open up. From sustainably farmed and certified organic survivor vines (70 years+) planted in the 1940s, this wine used to be known as the Block 3 single vineyard, however, the 2025 sees a little of Block 4 (directly behind running perpendicular to Block 3) blended in, hence the renaming to simply the Estate. Mulberries, blueberry paste and blackcurrants provide a dense fruit core, while cured meats, liquorice and gentle puffs of earth bring the savoury complexity the variety does so well. Medium to full-bodied, the fruit shows a little more concentration and a slightly stewed edge than previous vintages, reflecting the conditions of the season rather than the winemaking. Even so, the wine carries itself with confidence, delivering impressive length and persistence. Give it plenty of air and it begins to relax, reve
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views50-1502590-94ptsbarossamataro - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptscabernet-sauvignonmount-barker - news
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 views50-1502490-94ptsshiraztasmania - news
Kaesler The Fave Grenache 2025
Demanding your attention with every sip, The Fave from Kaesler is nothing short of an excellent example of Barossa Grenache. From 1930s vines, the fruit was hand-picked and whole-bunch fermented with wild yeast before spending 15 days on skins, it's a wine that balances power and poise with grace. Strawberries, vibrant red cherries and raspberry coulis burst from the glass, wrapped in a fine weave of spice that never overplays its hand. The textural detail is captivating, with a trail of brick dust-like tannins providing shape, persistence and character. There's terrific length and drive, yet it waltzes across the palate with elegance rather than force. An excellent Grenache that captures the variety's charm with confidence, finesse and irresistible moreish appeal. Go here. 95/100 Region: Barossa RRP: $60 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)21 views50-1502595ptsbarossagrenache - news
Stream & Stone Pinot Noir 2025
A new label from Angoves, this Stream & Stone Pinot Noir comes from Tasmania's Tamar Valley. Noticeably savoury from the first swirl, tilled earth, black tea, char and bacon hock set the tone, with burnt chocolate and dried herbs adding further layers of intrigue. The fruit takes a back seat to the earthy, savoury personality, while a bunchy texture brings a firm, grippy structure that shapes the palate. Like its Chardonnay sibling, the finish feels clipped and doesn't quite carry the length you'd hope for. That said, there's more presence and substance here, with complexity and structural grip making it the more compelling of the two. 90/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views50-1502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania - news
Stream & Stone Chardonnay 2025
A new brand under the Angove banner, this Chardonnay comes from Tasmania's Tamar Valley. Lemon, lemon sherbet, green apple and tinned pineapple deliver a bright and energetic opening before white-fleshed nectarines and subtle licks of barbecued peach add interest. A vanilla slice note and a slippery pastry-like feel bring a gentle creamy touch, while a saline edge keeps the fruit in check. It's neatly composed, although the fruit is thinly veiled and the palate feels clipped, finishing sooner than hoped. There's enough freshness and balance to make it an enjoyable drink, but it stops short of delivering the depth and persistence that would lift it to the next level. In the end, it goes okay. 89/100 Region: Tasmania RRP: $50 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to Qwine here Follow: Instagram , LinkedIn and X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)30 views50-1502585-89ptschardonnaytasmania - news
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 views50-1502495ptsbarossashiraz - news
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)21 views50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
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)22 views50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz - news
Cael's Gate Samuel Tempranillo 2025
From the Broke Fordwich subregion of the Hunter Valley, this Tempranillo from Cael's Gate arrives with plenty of intent. Blackberry fruit and blackberry liqueur notes sit at the core, but it's the oak that protrudes powerfully from the glass and blankets much of the fruit. As a result, the palate is firm and uncompromising. Powdery tannins are scattered across the palate, bringing a drying, puckering mouthfeel that tightens its grip with every sip. There’s no shortage of structure or conviction, but this is a wine that powers along like a bulldozer, flattening subtlety and leaving little room for charm to emerge. For me, Tempranillo is at its best when it balances savoury detail with juicy fruit, vitality and an easy rapport with food. This takes a different path. It dominates in a somewhat brutish fashion, commanding attention rather than inviting it. There’s certainly muscle here, but it doesn’t engage or embrace quite as much as hoped. 83/100 Region: Hunter Valley RRP:&
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views50-15025hunter-valleytempranillo