Topic

#90-94pts

123 posts tagged with this topic. RSS feed.

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)22 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-12
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 views
40-502590-94ptschardonnayorange
news2026-07-12
Varney Wines Entrada Grenache Cinsault Rosé 2026
  From 70+ year old bush vine Grenache with a splash of young Cinsault (12%), this Rosé from Varney Wines carries itself with confidence. Take this to a picnic and you're set. A salmon hue with the faintest orange tint sets the scene. Strawberries, cherries and pomegranate burst from the glass before a subtle lick of orange peel adds extra interest. There's a lovely sheet of texture flowing through the mid-palate, aided by a portion of wild yeast fermentation in seasoned French oak, bringing some weight. Delicate spice quietly threads its way through the palate before finishing bone dry. The close is all about a crunchy red apple acidity that keeps everything taut and draws you straight back for another sip. Refreshing yet textural, this is a highly approachable Rosé with plenty of appeal. 92/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
30-402690-94ptsgrenachemclaren-valerose
news2026-07-12
Grant Nash Poolside Rosé 2026
  Grenache and Graciano are unlikely bedfellows, but they work fabulously here in this Grant Nash Poolside Rosé. Sunny days are no match for this delight. An attractive onion skin appearance catches the eye. It's a very pretty Rosé with the duck egg blue label and a popping pink font giving it standout shelf appeal. White cherries and white raspberries lead the way before a creamy core emerges, thanks to time in seasoned oak that also delivers a subtle white chocolate nuance. Poached pear, red apple skin and watermelon husk add further intrigue, while a fine veil of white pepper spice quietly builds momentum through the palate. It's that spice coupled with impressive length and freshness that really seals the deal. There's personality, texture and drinkability in equal measure. A cracking Rosé and one you'll happily reach for again and again. Great drinking. Bravo! 93/100 Region:  McLaren Vale RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Fo
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
30-402690-94ptsmclaren-valerose
news2026-07-11
Higher Plane Two to Tango Cabernet Malbec 2023
  Cabernet Malbec can often veer toward the traditional, but this release from Higher Plane feels like a more modern and contemporary take on the blend - winning!  Expressive aromas of choc mint and squishy blackberries leap from the glass. The palate follows with plenty of flavour, think blackberry jubes while charred steak characters add a savoury edge and a touch of swagger. There's good flex here too, with the fruit carrying enough confidence to sit front and centre without overwhelming the wine's shape and flow. Firm tannins make their presence known early, though a juicy pulse running through the core keeps the wine engaging. The finish tightens up, turning puckering and drying as the tannins close ranks. It’s a wine that balances generosity with structure very well. Yes! 92/100 Region:  Margaret River RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views
30-402390-94ptscabernet-francmalbecmargaret-river
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)20 views
40-502490-94ptsgranite-beltshiraz
news2026-07-10
Head Wines Heart and Home Shiraz 2023
  A blend drawn from four Barossa vineyards, this Head Wines Heart & Home Shiraz carries plenty of regional character.  A 9% splash of Grenache works its magic too, bringing lift, brightness and a touch of prettiness to the wine's darker core. Blackberries and dark plums lead the charge, supported by notes of chocolate-dipped raspberries that add both richness and appeal. Dried herbs and licorice bullets contribute a savoury thread, giving the wine more dimension than a simple fruit bomb. What impresses most is the balance. There’s flex and muscle here, but little of the heft and bulk that can sometimes accompany Barossa Shiraz. The fruit is generous, the structure is respectable, and the whole package moves with ease and confidence across the palate. This is the sort of wine that delivers exactly what you want in equal doses: think flavour, balance and drinkability. Nicely done and great drinking for the asking price. 92/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $25 Source: S
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)22 views
20-302390-94ptsbarossashiraz
news2026-07-10
Head Wines RED GSM 2022
  A 60/20/20 GSM blend that leans into the savoury side, this Head Wines RED GSM opens with aromas of black earth, boot polish and chocolate before strawberry and red cherry cameos add a welcome flash of brightness.  There’s good shape and presence through the palate, with the wine carrying itself confidently. Just when the savoury notes appear set to take complete control, a burst of juicy fruit arrives on the mid-palate, injecting energy and keeping the wine lively and engaging. What stands out most is the texture. Super fine to taste, it glides effortlessly, backed by dusty tannins that provide enough structure without interrupting the flow. There’s a sense of balance and ease here that makes it particularly appealing. This is the sort of wine that quietly earns a place in the weekly rotation. It asks no questions, causes little fuss, but listens with intention. Honest, satisfying and highly drinkable, it's a mid-week go-to that delivers exactly what is required. 91/100 Re
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
30-402290-94ptsbarossagsm
news2026-07-10
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 views
40-502290-94ptsgsmmclaren-valemourvedre
news2026-07-10
Ross Hill Pinnacle Series Pinot Gris 2025
  Grown at 1020 metres above sea level, this Ross Hill Pinnacle Series Pinot Gris brings both freshness and texture to the table.  Fermented in seasoned French oak and matured on lees for eight months, there's a little extra complexity woven into what is already a very appealing drink. White lilies provide an elegant aromatic lift before cut pear, poached pear and pie apple take control of the flavour profile. The fruit feels generous without becoming heavy, carrying a lovely sense of balance across the palate. A neat veil of creaminess adds texture, while a gentle phenolic grip brings shape and interest. Together they broaden the wine's appeal at the table, making it an easy match for a wide range of dishes. An intriguing note of underripe green apple lingers, offering something to muse over long after the sip has gone. Scattered cinnamon spice threads its way through a persistent and moreish finish, adding another layer of charm. Textural, flavoursome and immensely drinkabl
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
30-402590-94ptsorangepinot-gris-grigio
news2026-07-09
Head Wines RED Grenache 2025
  The fusion of four Barossa and Eden Valley sites delivers a Grenache that bowls down the line with reliable line and length. Energetic aromas explode from the glass featuring dried red petals and roses, red berries and sarsaparilla. The fruit is juicy and silky, flowing about with ease. It's a wine that you can reach for time and again given its moreishness that is driven by tense, earthy tannins and finishes dry with a powdery note that whispers, calling you back. If the neighbours call you over for a drink, take two because one will evaporate in no time. 92/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)18 views
30-402590-94ptsbarossagrenache
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)24 views
50-1502490-94ptsbarossagrenache
news2026-07-08
Usher Tinkler Tinkemans Shiraz 2023
Off the back of the Royal Queensland Wine Show, I was known for some of my interesting (and perhaps entertaining) tasting notes. A wine of detail and complexity, this Usher Tinkler Shiraz offers plenty of interest to explore. What I see here is what I experienced in some trendy, whole bunch wines that I termed Fitzroy piss. You know the type. They're the wines that those uber-cool bars and restaurants in Melbourne's Fitzroy and Brunswick would eat up, deluxe. It's the use of whole bunches that makes the difference. This is all savoury, meaty and utterly smashable. Baked cherries and plum strudel, pan juices, cured meats, it's a wine with character and presence. But that presence doesn't steal the spotlight, it causes you to lean in and discuss. It brings curiosity with a hint of swagger and charm. Torn jeans, unshaven yet moving with grace to its own beat. That's this Shiraz. Mind you, light the fire and embrace the cool of night with the added bonus of some steaks sizzling over golden
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
50-1502390-94ptshunter-valleyshiraz
news2026-07-08
Ballandean Estate Saperavi 2023
  What makes Saperavi unique is its red flesh. One of the first to plant the variety in Australia (2008), Ballandean Estate continues to be a high performer. Black plums, blackberries and squishy blueberries lead the charge, delivering plenty of flavour and a more densely packed expression than recent vintages. There’s power here, no question, but some of the charm that has elevated this Saperavi in years gone by feels reserved. The lifted notes of dried purple flowers and violets that have often defined the wine are notably subdued. In their place sits a savoury edge of meatiness and pan juices, wrapped around a core of dark fruit. A streak of granite-like minerality keeps things honest, providing shape and direction through the palate. The tannins close dusty and furry, bringing grip and structure that suggest this will continue to evolve with bottle age. It remains a thoroughly enjoyable drink, but having seen this wine reach some lofty heights before, this release sits a touch
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views
50-1502390-94ptsgranite-beltsaperavi
news2026-07-07
Gilberts Wines Riesling 2025
  Cool, fresh and super inviting, this Mount Barker Riesling is all about purity, energy and summertime pleasure. Aromas of white field flowers and cut green apple leap from the glass. An expressive palate of lime zest, Bickford's lime cordial and apple sours lure you closer with a mouthwatering lemon granita tang that keeps everything in check. A moreish and most delicious chalky texture adds shape and draws out the finish. Really clever and super refreshing, this oozes long lunches and good company in the sunshine. 94/100 Region:  Mount Barker  RRP:  $32 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)17 views
30-402590-94ptsmount-barkerriesling
news2026-07-07
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 views
40-502590-94ptsadelaide-hillsshiraz
news2026-07-07
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 views
40-502390-94ptsblendsgrenachegsm
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
news2026-07-06
Tout Prêt BBQ Shiraz 2025
  Hitting the Qwine tasting bench from Rutherglen, this medium-bodied BBQ Shiraz smashes the brief for an approachable and easy-drinking drop that is armed and ready for casual gatherings. Dark cherries, red currants, red apple peel and plums skip from the glass, offering a melange of bright fruit and a darker, richer edge. Licks of char and charcoal are met by a dusting of black pepper spice. A wine with a respectable presence and length, splash it generously in a glass while indulging in a snag on bread or even minute steak burgers straight off the barbie. Winning! 92/100 Region:  Rutherglen RRP:  $30 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)20 views
30-402590-94ptsrutherglenshiraz
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)16 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)17 views
50-1502490-94ptsadelaide-hillspinot-noir
news2026-06-28
Ballandean Estate Chardonnay 2024
  Sitting on the richer side of the Chardonnay spectrum, this release from Ballandean Estate possesses charming appeal and is ready for a cool, wet evening with a roast chook in the oven. Barbecued peach, lemon balm, old school lemonade and Danish pastry aromas flow with ease to an expressive and generous palate. Nougat, vanilla slice, almonds and roasted cashews add some savoury appeal. Bickford's lemon cordial finds its moment to pounce, and time in oak is evident, delivering threads of creaminess that fold into the frame with ease. Fine ginger-like spice tap away on a lengthy finish. The longer I peruse, the more I want in, such is the balance and considered length.  I have seen many Chardonnays with a similar frame and shape for $50+, so I was mightily impressed when I discovered that this chases a humble $36. Terrific drinking. Bravo! 93/100 Region:  Granite Belt RRP:  $36 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)16 views
30-402490-94ptschardonnaygranite-belt
news2026-06-26
Usher Tinkler Reserve Shiraz 2023
  Leading with a savoury and brooding aroma profile, be sure to give this Usher Tinkler Reserve Shiraz a decant before serving. Ground coffee and mocha aromas set the tone with dark berries, ripe plums and the flicker of crunchy red apples. A fine ribbon of dark chocolate moves and sways throughout adding another level of detail. Drying, there is an unmissable rustic presence that has me hooked. Layers of woodsy spices, meat rub spices and a smoky edge build further detail to peel back. That smoky character brings a hock and char note and all I can think of from this point is a night by the fire pit with large steaks sizzling over golden coals. That cool country air, the rustic vibes and the glow of the coals would bring all these elements together in a neat power play. Great stuff. 92/100 Region:  Hunter Valley RRP:  $75 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)19 views
50-1502390-94ptshunter-valleyshiraz
news2026-06-26
Turkey Flat Butcher's Block GSM 2024
  We're onto something here. Bring me all those lifted florals and vibrant fruit. This is a super Butcher's Block GSM release that delivers and then some for $27. It opens with a cascade of blueberries, mulberries and strawberries not to mention delightful aromas of violets. With what appears to be a glossy sheen, there is an evocative blueberry paste note along with a fine thread of red currants and a dash of chocolate. Lean into this a little more with its terrific shape and flow, elevating its approachability. Five spice and exotic spices are threaded through the core, completing a GSM that is composed and humble rather than OTT and showy. What a beauty! 92/100 Region:  Barossa RRP:  $27 Source: Sample Winery Website Subscribe to   Qwine here Follow:  Instagram ,  LinkedIn  and  X
by noreply@blogger.com (Unknown)24 views
20-302490-94ptsbarossagrenachegsm

Bethany Blue Quarry Across The Creek Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Ross Hill Pinnacle Series Chardonnay 2025

Varney Wines Entrada Grenache Cinsault Rosé 2026

Grant Nash Poolside Rosé 2026

Higher Plane Two to Tango Cabernet Malbec 2023

Ballandean Estate Opera Block Shiraz 2024

Head Wines Heart and Home Shiraz 2023

Head Wines RED GSM 2022

Grant Nash Mourvedre Grenache Shiraz 2022

Ross Hill Pinnacle Series Pinot Gris 2025

Head Wines RED Grenache 2025

Bethany Blue Quarry Manse Vineyard Grenache 2024

Usher Tinkler Tinkemans Shiraz 2023

Ballandean Estate Saperavi 2023

Gilberts Wines Riesling 2025

Vinteloper Shiraz 2025

Grant Nash Lunch GSM 2023

Ballandean Estate Nebbiolo 2024

Tout Prêt BBQ Shiraz 2025

Jericho Bracken Vineyard Shiraz 2024

Vinteloper Rogue Pinot Noir 2024

Ballandean Estate Chardonnay 2024

Usher Tinkler Reserve Shiraz 2023

Turkey Flat Butcher's Block GSM 2024