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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)16 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)17 views
20-302490-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz
news2026-07-29
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 views
50-1501790-94ptsmclaren-valeshiraz
news2026-07-29
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)19 views
50-1502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania
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)13 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)17 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-26
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)14 views
40-502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania
news2026-07-23
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)17 views
50-1502590-94ptsbarossamataro
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)21 views
50-1502490-94ptscabernet-sauvignonmount-barker
news2026-07-23
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)18 views
40-502390-94ptsmount-barkershiraz
news2026-07-22
First Drop Fat of the Land Ebenezer Shiraz 2021
  Ebenezer has long been a source of powerful Barossa Shiraz, and this Fat of the Land release from First Drop Wines proudly flies that flag.  Sourced from deep red clay soils at ~290 metres above sea level, it delivers dense, ripe fruit with layers of mulberries and dark plums at its core. A flicker of redcurrant and cola brings welcome lift, while 20 months in French oak, half of it new, contributes rich dark chocolate brownie notes. Dusty tannins provide plenty of structure, finishing with a drying, puckering grip that gives the wine purpose and promises further reward with bottle age. Of the three Fat of the Land Barossa subregional releases, this feels like the all-rounder, balancing generosity, structure and regional character with confidence. A thoroughly satisfying Barossa Shiraz with broad appeal. Drink to 15 years+ 94/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $150 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn &
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
1502190-94ptsbarossashiraz
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)17 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)20 views
50-1502490-94ptsshiraztasmania
news2026-07-20
Varney Wines GSM 2023
  More herbal than the juicy, fruit-driven style this Varney GSM has become known for, this 2023 slides back a notch or two from those that have come before. It opens with raspberries and blackberries before menthol, dried herbs and a subtle hint of tomato paste take the lead. Chocolate, stripped bark and earthy notes build further complexity, while a blanket of spice settles comfortably over the finish. It's balanced and remains an enjoyable drink, offering plenty of savoury character and interest. That said, it doesn't quite capture the energy, generosity or wow factor of previous releases. In all, it's a solid GSM. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $35 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views
30-402390-94ptsblendsgrenachemataro
news2026-07-20
Jericho Fiano 2026
  Fresh and bright, this Jericho Fiano is springtime in a glass.  White flowers and cold-pressed green apple leap from the glass before cut pear, lemon juice and lemon rind bring a lively citrus lift. A fine rub of texture glides through the palate, with a riverstone-like minerality adding shape and freshness without stealing the spotlight. There's terrific energy from start to finish, delivering a crisp, vibrant and refreshing wine. Approachable from the outset yet carrying enough texture to keep things interesting, rip the cap off, gather some friends to picnic in the park with this poured generously. 90/100 Region:  Adelaide Hills RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)15 views
20-302690-94ptsadelaide-hillsfiano
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)18 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)19 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)16 views
15-202490-94ptsbargainmurray-darlingshiraz
news2026-07-17
Cook & Co Fiano 2026
  A Fiano that will certainly brighten your day, check this Cook & Co from the Clare Valley. Merlot vines were grafted over to Fiano in 2002 and the result is a wine that bursts from the glass with an aromatic lime hit that immediately throws out Riesling vibes. Lemon, lemon sherbet and lime zest keep the energy high, delivering a fresh, bouncy personality that's impossible not to like. Beneath all that vibrancy sits a wonderfully textured palate, with a minerally thread adding shape and class. There's terrific balance between its zesty citrus drive and fine texture, delivering effortless appeal. This is an upbeat, dancy wine with springtime written all over it. Pour a glass and try not to smile - I dare you.  92/100 Region:  Clare Valley  RRP:  $28 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
20-302690-94ptsclare-valleyfiano
news2026-07-17
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)18 views
50-1502590-94ptspinot-noirtasmania
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)21 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz

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

Geoff Merrill Reserve Shiraz 2017

Holm Oak Fearless Pinot Noir 2025

Byrne Farm Glenidle Vineyard Pinot Noir 2024

Hayes Family Wines Block 1 Shiraz 2024

Holm Oak Pinot Noir 2025

Hayes Family Wines Estate Mataro 2025

Gilberts Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2024

Gilberts Reserve Shiraz 2023

First Drop Fat of the Land Ebenezer Shiraz 2021

Usher Tinkler Death By Semillon 2024

Holm Oak Shiraz 2024

Varney Wines GSM 2023

Jericho Fiano 2026

3 Rings Cabernet Shiraz 2024

3 Ring Shiraz 2024

Paringa Shiraz 2024

Cook & Co Fiano 2026

Stream & Stone Pinot Noir 2025

Bethany Blue Quarry Bethanien Sth Vineyard Shiraz 2024