Under $40 Top Sellers 2025 - 6 Pack Value
Six standout wines that have captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts everywhere. The Under $40 Top Sellers 2025 collection brings together a mix of exceptional reds, whites, and rosés, each celebrated for their quality and value. Sourced from renowned vineyards, these wines deliver remarkable flavors that are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations. Treat yourself or surprise a fellow wine lover with this expertly curated selection of top-rated favorites.
1 x Tar & Roses Shiraz 2021 - Heathcote, Australia
91/100 The Wine Front
92/100 Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion (2020 vintage)
91/100 Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2019 vintage)
Silver - Decanter World Wine Awards (2019 vintage)
100% Shiraz
Alcohol: 14.5%
The Wine Front " Easy shiraz to like. Well flavoured, a bit of spunk, fresh fruit and just generally more-ish. Black cherries, plums, peppercorns and vanilla. A slip of creaminess but really it’s the fruit holding the floor. One glass and you’re definitely up for a second. Good stuff."
Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion "Lush Heathcote black fruits bring their signature generosity and spice to the fore here. There's so much to tuck into and enjoy: black cherry, blackberry, bramble, black olive, licorice, cured meat and leather. Savoury notes bring an added dimension to the role of woodsy oak spice and cedar. Medium bodied and smooth with well-crafted tannins. All quality for a smart price." (2020 vintage)
Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion "Heathcote shiraz putting on a mighty fine show here. Translucent deep purple in the glass with the scent of freshly squeezed black cherries, bramble, raspberry and violet. Runs long and smooth across the palate, quite plummy and lifted with a hint of musky, woody spices. Fresh, fruit forward and bright, it will satisfy drinking this year but also prove its cellaring potential." (2019 vintage)
Decanter World Wine Awards "Focused fruit with some nice sharp dark red berry characters with a balancing chocolate sweetness. A little tight- needs time." (2019 vintage)
The original Tar & Roses team of famed Don Lewis and Narelle King began their winemaking journey in Priorat, Spain, immersing themselves within the classic Mediterranean wine regions and varietals. This sparked an interest in how these varietals could be grown and made back home in their native regions of Central Victoria, Australia. Don, now passed was one of Australia's legendary winemakers earning the highest honour of winemaking in Australia, the prestigious Jimmy Watson award.
James Halliday "Tar & Roses produces wines inspired by the classic Mediterranean varietals and was named after the signature characteristics of Nebbiolo. The name also ties back to the winemaking team behind the venture, the legendary Don Lewis and his winemaking partner Narelle King. Narelle is carrying on the Tar & Roses tradition after Don's passing in 2017"
Tar & Roses style of wines reflects the multi-region of Spain, Italy and Australia, as well as traditional winemaking alongside the new. All Tar & Roses wines are made using fruit grown in Heathcote, Strathbogie Ranges, Alpine Valley, King Valley and Priorat, Spain.
Heathcote is a prestigious wine region in Central Victoria. Shiraz is the unchallenged king of Heathcote wines, making world-class, award-winning wines characterized by their rich and deep aroma profile, a dark, almost inky colour, ripe, velvety tannins and an amazingly long finish.
Shiraz, also known as Syrah is a popular red wine. Though the spiritual homeland of this red grape is France, Syrah has been planted throughout the world to great success. It expresses itself differently depending on the climate, soil and regional style.
1 x Willow Bridge Coat of Arms Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 - Geographe, Western Australia
93/100 Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion
93/100 James Suckling
92/100 Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion (2018 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
93/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
89/100 Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2016 vintage)
Bronze - Perth Royal Food Awards 2023
Gold - Royal Melbourne Wine Awards 2016 (2015 vintage)
Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion "Succulent with lots of cassis, violet floral lift, mint, eucalyptus and black pepper. Oh yes. This sits on the palate fresh and fine, cinched with lacy tannins and cool with that minty herbal component through a medium-weight flourish of cabernet and a lingering, spicy finish. It nails the variety and delivers it full, albeit with genial restraint and ease of drinking through and through. A wonderful thing to relax into."
James Suckling "I like the tobacco and iodine notes here, along with blackberries and tomato leaves. It’s medium-bodied, fresh and structured, with tight and fine tannins. Excellent varietal character showing through, with a long and firm finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap."
Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion "Almost gentle in outlook with its currant, cassis and raspberry flavours, dash of spice and warm bitumen. It's barely medium-bodied with gritty, ripe tannins yet stamped with immediate drinkability." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling "Impressive, leafy and light, bright red-fruit aromas here, together with a swathe of spicy oak weighing into the mix of aromas and continuing into the palate where it is subsumed by smooth, redcurrant and plum flavors. So drinkable now, but this will age easily for up to a decade. Screw cap." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling "Blueberry and mineral aromas with hints of spearmint follow through to a medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Some tar, too. Complex and delicious. Drink or hold. Screw cap." (2016 vintage)
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Medium to deep red colour with a tinge of purple. The aroma is straightforward, raspberry-ish and bright, and it's frisky and firm on the palate, with some grittiness in the tannins. Fruit drives it. There are slightly chewy tannins to close, and the wine has good length and density. It's well-priced." (2016 vintage)
Willow Bridge Estate continues to attract acclaim for the relatively newly established wine growing region of Geographe which is located adjacent to its more famous neighbour, Margaret River, in Western Australia. Wine critcs have heralded the winery for producing quality, good value wines. Winemaking is by veteran Western Australian winemaker, Kim Horton.
The Geographe wine growing region is located near the southern end of the Western Australia's Indian Ocean coast, between the emerging Peel region and famous Margaret River – with which its terroir shares several similarities. The best wines grown in this region include fruity Cabernet Sauvignon (often blended with Merlot), gamey Shiraz, rich, citrusy Chardonnay, and grassy 'SSB' blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The region's profile is increasing with several Geographe wineries winning national and international awards annually. At the heart of Western Australia's wine industry, the region supplies more than 10% of Western Australia's wine.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most famous red wine grape variety on Earth. It is rivaled in this regard only by its Bordeaux stablemate Merlot, and its opposite number in Burgundy, Pinot Noir. From its origins in Bordeaux, Cabernet has successfully spread to almost every winegrowing country in the world. It is now the key grape variety in many first-rate New World wine regions, most notably Napa Valley, Coonawarra and Maipo Valley. Wherever they come from, Cabernet Sauvignon wines always seem to demonstrate a handful of common character traits: deep color, good tannin structure, moderate acidity and aromas of blackcurrant, tomato leaf, dark spices and cedarwood.
1 x Villa Vescovile Chardonnay 2022 - Trentino, Italy
Vino "....intense notes of fresh fruit accompanied by delicate floral hints. In the mouth it proves a fresh, dry wine with a particularly aromatic aftertaste. Perfect for aperitif, appetizers and fish dishes."
Vivino User Review, PT "....melange of lemon peel, lime, green apple, pear, peach and tar on the nose. Fresh and straightforward, with low acidity and melon and pineapple flavors."
Winemaker "..fresh fruit aromas and floral hints. The palate is dry and fresh, pleasantly aromatic."
100% Chardonnay
Villa Vescovile wines are sourced from prestigous vineyards of the Trentino area located just north of Trento. Overseen by the famous winemakers of Rocca delle Macie, Villa Vescovile wines are produced using the acclaimed winemaking traditions of South Tyrol. The grapes are planted on the sloping terrain of the area and are cultivated using the pergola system, on terraced soils. The grapes produce two red wines and four white wines, all of which are worthy examples of character and tipicity. Villa Vescovile wines encompass the important denominations of origin of the region. Known for their balance of fruit, they epitomise what makes North Italian cool climate wines famous.
Villa Vescovile wines are a collaboration with Rocca delle Macìe Winery which was established in 1973, when film producer, Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also of the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone.
Wine Enthusists Magazine's 'Wine Region of the Year' in 2020, Trentino is known for its. world-class wines. About an hour’s drive from Verona and surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most beautiful areas in Italy country.
Celebrated for its pristine ski slopes, breathtaking hiking trails, cycling routes and dramatic scenery, Trentino is also one of the most dynamic, multifaceted wine-producing areas in Italy. It makes quality, terroir-driven wines from both international and regional grapes, as well as one of the country’s most renowned bottle-fermented sparklers.
Counting 25,232 acres of vines, the province accounts for 1.6% of the nation’s vineyard area. White grapes dominate its wine scene. Pinot Grigio is the leader, comprising 34% of overall grape production followed by Chardonnay at 26% and Müller-Thurgau at 10%. Other white varieties include Sauvignon, Pinot Bianco and Nosiola. For red wine production, Teroldego, Merlot, Marzemino and Pinot Nero are the main grapes followed by Schiava.
Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.
1 x Brokenwood Cricket Pitch Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2022 ~ Hunter Valley, Australia
16/20 Jancis Robinson
Bronze - The Wine Front (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2017 vintage)
Bronze - The Wine Front (2015 vintage)
Bronze - Campbell Mattinson, Halliday Wine Companion (2015 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2015 vintage)
5 Stars Winery - Halliday Wine Companion
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Grassy, lemony aromas, light-bodied clean and lively on the tongue. The palate is refreshing, with crisp acidity. A very good seafood white. " (2017 vintage)
Campbell Mattinson, Halliday Wine Companion "It's essentially crisp and fruit-driven, though a gentle slip of sweetness won't do its popularity any harm." (2015 vintage)
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Parsley herbal aromas, a bit green, with almost a suggestion of basil. Simple, light-bodied, still fresh and in good drinking condition.' (2015 vintage)
James Halliday "A deservedly fashionable winery producing consistently excellent wines. Its big-selling Hunter Semillon provides the volume to balance the limited quantities of the flagships ILR Semillon and Graveyard Shiraz. Brokenwood purchased the Graveyard Vineyard from Hungerford Hill in '78 and has been working to totally rehabilitate the vineyard over the ensuing decades. It's been a vine by vine exercise, with a degree of experimentation of rootstocks and clonal material from other, even older vineyards. Next, there is a range of wines coming from regions including Beechworth (a major resource is the associated Indigo Vineyard), Orange, Central Ranges, McLaren Vale, Cowra and elsewhere. In 2017 Iain Riggs celebrated his 35th vintage at the helm of Brokenwood, offering a unique mix of winemaking skills, management of diverse business, and an unerring ability to keep Brokenwood's high profile fresh and newsworthy. He has also contributed a great deal to various wine industry organisations."
Established in 1970 Brokenwood Wines is one of Australia's most reputable premium wine labels and a must-visit in the Hunter Valley. It was established by Australia's leading wine critic, James Halliday.
Consistently listed as a 5-star winery, Brokenwood is home to the famous Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, the highly acclaimed ILR Reserve Semillon, and the popular Cricket Pitch Range.
The Hunter Valley is the best-known and most highly prized wine region in New South Wales. It is known as the region where the Australian wine industry started. The valley's winemakers have pioneered two distinctive styles of wine (oaked Chardonnay and dry Semillon) and has retained a strong connection with both of them. The Hunter Valley's most famous wine style is its distinctive dry Semillon, made there since the 1870s. Hunter Valley Semillons are renowned for their ability to improve with age.
Sauvignon Blanc – Semillon is a classic white wine blend. It is most widely produced in France, most notably Bordeaux's Graves district, where both Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are well-established varieties. It also has more recently caught on in Australia, particularly Margaret River. The versatile blend is typically made into crisp, dry wines, but it is also the blend of choice for the world's most prestigious sweet wine style, Sauternes. The blend is endowed with vibrant acidity and grassy aromas by Sauvignon Blanc, and its structure and mouthfeel from Semillon. This blend is a modern, simplified version of the classic White Bordeaux Blend, in which Muscadelle, Sauvignon Gris, Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Merlot Blanc may be added to the mix.
1 x Chateau Maucoil Côtes du Rhône Villages Blanc 2022 - Rhone, France
90/100 James Suckling (2021 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Robert Parker (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Spectator (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2019 vintage)
5 Stars - All about wine Ltd
4.5 Stars - Independent Spirits, Inc.
2 Stars - Le Guide Hachette des Vins
Organic
James Suckling "Plenty of mandarin-orange, ripe-nectarine and some white-flower character makes this juicy but supple dry white easy to enjoy. Excellent balance and at the long, silky finish. From organically grown grapes." (2021 vintage)
James Suckling "This has a fruity nose of nectarine, sliced apple, apricot and pineapple. It’s medium-bodied with a succulent, juicy and supple palate. Fresh finish. From organically grown grapes. " (2020 vintage)
Robert Parker "...is a plump, appealing white that combines tangerine and white peach notes. Medium-bodied, silky and harmonious, it's easy to drink—a satisfying wine that accompanies food rather than dominating it." (2020 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "This moderately full-bodied white highlights flavors of freshly pressed apple and pear accented by hints of smoke and salt. Made from organically grown grapes, it's a pleasantly spicy, juicy sip that finishes on a squirt of tangerine." (2020 vintage)
James Suckling "A pleasant white with aromas and flavors of sliced dried pears and apples. Medium to full body. Attractive finish." (2019 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "It's a delightfully creamy, full-bodied white marked by yellow apple and tangerine flavors along with a hint of toasted marshmallow on the finish. A hedonistic but fresh-fruited sip at peak now" (20219 vintage)
Curious Wines "Fetching golden-blonde hue with an exotic, curvaceous feel and fresh, powerful notes of honeyed grapes, apple, lime tree and apricot. Fleshy and succulent, with a dry finish." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling 'Cooked-apple and white-peach aromas follow through to a medium body, fresh acidity and a round finish. From organically grown grapes. A blend of 50 per cent grenache blanc and 50 per cent clairette.' (2018 vintage)
Wine Spectator 'Delicious white peach, lemon curd, star fruit and honeysuckle notes glide through atop racy acidity, ending with lingering freshness. A kiss of brioche at the end adds a flattering hint. Grenache blanc and clairette.' (2018 vintage)
The history of Château Maucoil began several centuries ago. Ancient documents state that its first occupants were Romans who set up a base for Caesar’s legions. Later, Joseph de La Pise, Lord of Maucoil and archivist of the House of Orange-Nassau, the Dutch royal family, inherited the estate and the castle which was built in 1624. From then on, winegrowing became an intrinsic part of the history of Château Maucoil.
The 45 hectares of vines in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation have been organic agriculture since 2011. Château Maucoil uses ancient methods such as furrowing, forming mounds and ploughing to tend the vineyard.
Originally from Bordeaux, the Lavau family who now own Château Maucoil, have been involved with winemaking for generations, and have had vineyards ranging from Bordeaux to Tunisia. In 1964 they were seduced by the richness and quality of the Provencal soil and settled down to make wine in the Rhone Valley.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a historic village between the towns of Orange and Avignon, in France's southern Rhône Valley. It is famous for powerful, full-bodied red wines made predominantly from the classic southern Rhône grape trio: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. These three varieties are behind the vast majority of the appellation's red wines, although a total of eighteen are approved for use – a mix of red and white grape varieties.
Southern Rhone White Blend is a term used to describe the various combinations of white wine grapes used in the southern half of the Rhone Valley. The wines themselves are not confined to the Rhone production zone and have been interpreted and replicated with varying degrees of success in the United States, Australia, Spain, North Africa and South America.
The principal varieties involved in a white wine from the southern Rhone are any combination of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Ugni Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Picpoul.
1 x Mojo Prosecco NV ~ Victoria, Australia
Winemaker "....heady aromas of apple, fresh fruit and citrus. The palate is soft and approachable with a mouth filling freshness balanced with brilliant crisp acidity. Racy, apple, crunchy."
Mojo Prosecco is appealing and approachable with aromas of fresh cut crunchy green apple and zingy but creamy lemon-lime highlights, think lemon meringue and fresh strawberries. The palate is soft and approachable with a mouth filling freshness balanced with brilliant crisp acidity.
Mojo work with growers across South Australia to create a range of wines that capture the unique characteristics of each region and varietal. Free from the constraint of owning their own vineyards they believe they are able to make wines that each have their own unique story. Each harvest Mojo use the best grapes of the season in each region.
Prosecco is a pale and light grape indigenous to northern Italy that makes one of the countries most popular sparkling wines. Most Prosecco is made in an extra extra dry, or off dry, style offering fruity aromas of confected pears and peaches. A small percentage are made in a dry Brut style offering bracing green apple and citrus fruit.
Six standout wines that have captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts everywhere. The Under $40 Top Sellers 2025 collection brings together a mix of exceptional reds, whites, and rosés, each celebrated for their quality and value. Sourced from renowned vineyards, these wines deliver remarkable flavors that are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to special celebrations. Treat yourself or surprise a fellow wine lover with this expertly curated selection of top-rated favorites.
1 x Tar & Roses Shiraz 2021 - Heathcote, Australia
91/100 The Wine Front
92/100 Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion (2020 vintage)
91/100 Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2019 vintage)
Silver - Decanter World Wine Awards (2019 vintage)
100% Shiraz
Alcohol: 14.5%
The Wine Front " Easy shiraz to like. Well flavoured, a bit of spunk, fresh fruit and just generally more-ish. Black cherries, plums, peppercorns and vanilla. A slip of creaminess but really it’s the fruit holding the floor. One glass and you’re definitely up for a second. Good stuff."
Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion "Lush Heathcote black fruits bring their signature generosity and spice to the fore here. There's so much to tuck into and enjoy: black cherry, blackberry, bramble, black olive, licorice, cured meat and leather. Savoury notes bring an added dimension to the role of woodsy oak spice and cedar. Medium bodied and smooth with well-crafted tannins. All quality for a smart price." (2020 vintage)
Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion "Heathcote shiraz putting on a mighty fine show here. Translucent deep purple in the glass with the scent of freshly squeezed black cherries, bramble, raspberry and violet. Runs long and smooth across the palate, quite plummy and lifted with a hint of musky, woody spices. Fresh, fruit forward and bright, it will satisfy drinking this year but also prove its cellaring potential." (2019 vintage)
Decanter World Wine Awards "Focused fruit with some nice sharp dark red berry characters with a balancing chocolate sweetness. A little tight- needs time." (2019 vintage)
The original Tar & Roses team of famed Don Lewis and Narelle King began their winemaking journey in Priorat, Spain, immersing themselves within the classic Mediterranean wine regions and varietals. This sparked an interest in how these varietals could be grown and made back home in their native regions of Central Victoria, Australia. Don, now passed was one of Australia's legendary winemakers earning the highest honour of winemaking in Australia, the prestigious Jimmy Watson award.
James Halliday "Tar & Roses produces wines inspired by the classic Mediterranean varietals and was named after the signature characteristics of Nebbiolo. The name also ties back to the winemaking team behind the venture, the legendary Don Lewis and his winemaking partner Narelle King. Narelle is carrying on the Tar & Roses tradition after Don's passing in 2017"
Tar & Roses style of wines reflects the multi-region of Spain, Italy and Australia, as well as traditional winemaking alongside the new. All Tar & Roses wines are made using fruit grown in Heathcote, Strathbogie Ranges, Alpine Valley, King Valley and Priorat, Spain.
Heathcote is a prestigious wine region in Central Victoria. Shiraz is the unchallenged king of Heathcote wines, making world-class, award-winning wines characterized by their rich and deep aroma profile, a dark, almost inky colour, ripe, velvety tannins and an amazingly long finish.
Shiraz, also known as Syrah is a popular red wine. Though the spiritual homeland of this red grape is France, Syrah has been planted throughout the world to great success. It expresses itself differently depending on the climate, soil and regional style.
1 x Willow Bridge Coat of Arms Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 - Geographe, Western Australia
93/100 Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion
93/100 James Suckling
92/100 Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion (2018 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
93/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
89/100 Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2016 vintage)
Bronze - Perth Royal Food Awards 2023
Gold - Royal Melbourne Wine Awards 2016 (2015 vintage)
Mike Bennie, Halliday Wine Companion "Succulent with lots of cassis, violet floral lift, mint, eucalyptus and black pepper. Oh yes. This sits on the palate fresh and fine, cinched with lacy tannins and cool with that minty herbal component through a medium-weight flourish of cabernet and a lingering, spicy finish. It nails the variety and delivers it full, albeit with genial restraint and ease of drinking through and through. A wonderful thing to relax into."
James Suckling "I like the tobacco and iodine notes here, along with blackberries and tomato leaves. It’s medium-bodied, fresh and structured, with tight and fine tannins. Excellent varietal character showing through, with a long and firm finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap."
Jane Faulkner, Halliday Wine Companion "Almost gentle in outlook with its currant, cassis and raspberry flavours, dash of spice and warm bitumen. It's barely medium-bodied with gritty, ripe tannins yet stamped with immediate drinkability." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling "Impressive, leafy and light, bright red-fruit aromas here, together with a swathe of spicy oak weighing into the mix of aromas and continuing into the palate where it is subsumed by smooth, redcurrant and plum flavors. So drinkable now, but this will age easily for up to a decade. Screw cap." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling "Blueberry and mineral aromas with hints of spearmint follow through to a medium to full body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. Some tar, too. Complex and delicious. Drink or hold. Screw cap." (2016 vintage)
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Medium to deep red colour with a tinge of purple. The aroma is straightforward, raspberry-ish and bright, and it's frisky and firm on the palate, with some grittiness in the tannins. Fruit drives it. There are slightly chewy tannins to close, and the wine has good length and density. It's well-priced." (2016 vintage)
Willow Bridge Estate continues to attract acclaim for the relatively newly established wine growing region of Geographe which is located adjacent to its more famous neighbour, Margaret River, in Western Australia. Wine critcs have heralded the winery for producing quality, good value wines. Winemaking is by veteran Western Australian winemaker, Kim Horton.
The Geographe wine growing region is located near the southern end of the Western Australia's Indian Ocean coast, between the emerging Peel region and famous Margaret River – with which its terroir shares several similarities. The best wines grown in this region include fruity Cabernet Sauvignon (often blended with Merlot), gamey Shiraz, rich, citrusy Chardonnay, and grassy 'SSB' blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. The region's profile is increasing with several Geographe wineries winning national and international awards annually. At the heart of Western Australia's wine industry, the region supplies more than 10% of Western Australia's wine.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most famous red wine grape variety on Earth. It is rivaled in this regard only by its Bordeaux stablemate Merlot, and its opposite number in Burgundy, Pinot Noir. From its origins in Bordeaux, Cabernet has successfully spread to almost every winegrowing country in the world. It is now the key grape variety in many first-rate New World wine regions, most notably Napa Valley, Coonawarra and Maipo Valley. Wherever they come from, Cabernet Sauvignon wines always seem to demonstrate a handful of common character traits: deep color, good tannin structure, moderate acidity and aromas of blackcurrant, tomato leaf, dark spices and cedarwood.
1 x Villa Vescovile Chardonnay 2022 - Trentino, Italy
Vino "....intense notes of fresh fruit accompanied by delicate floral hints. In the mouth it proves a fresh, dry wine with a particularly aromatic aftertaste. Perfect for aperitif, appetizers and fish dishes."
Vivino User Review, PT "....melange of lemon peel, lime, green apple, pear, peach and tar on the nose. Fresh and straightforward, with low acidity and melon and pineapple flavors."
Winemaker "..fresh fruit aromas and floral hints. The palate is dry and fresh, pleasantly aromatic."
100% Chardonnay
Villa Vescovile wines are sourced from prestigous vineyards of the Trentino area located just north of Trento. Overseen by the famous winemakers of Rocca delle Macie, Villa Vescovile wines are produced using the acclaimed winemaking traditions of South Tyrol. The grapes are planted on the sloping terrain of the area and are cultivated using the pergola system, on terraced soils. The grapes produce two red wines and four white wines, all of which are worthy examples of character and tipicity. Villa Vescovile wines encompass the important denominations of origin of the region. Known for their balance of fruit, they epitomise what makes North Italian cool climate wines famous.
Villa Vescovile wines are a collaboration with Rocca delle Macìe Winery which was established in 1973, when film producer, Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also of the wildly popular series of films featuring comedy duo Bud Spencer and Terence Hill (including “They Call Me Trinity” and “Trinity Is Still My Name”) – decided to realize his lifelong dream by acquiring the “Le Macìe” estate – extending across 93 hectares (230 acres) in all, of which only two were under vine – in order to create a winery in the heart of the Chianti Classico zone.
Wine Enthusists Magazine's 'Wine Region of the Year' in 2020, Trentino is known for its. world-class wines. About an hour’s drive from Verona and surrounded by the majestic Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site, it’s one of the most beautiful areas in Italy country.
Celebrated for its pristine ski slopes, breathtaking hiking trails, cycling routes and dramatic scenery, Trentino is also one of the most dynamic, multifaceted wine-producing areas in Italy. It makes quality, terroir-driven wines from both international and regional grapes, as well as one of the country’s most renowned bottle-fermented sparklers.
Counting 25,232 acres of vines, the province accounts for 1.6% of the nation’s vineyard area. White grapes dominate its wine scene. Pinot Grigio is the leader, comprising 34% of overall grape production followed by Chardonnay at 26% and Müller-Thurgau at 10%. Other white varieties include Sauvignon, Pinot Bianco and Nosiola. For red wine production, Teroldego, Merlot, Marzemino and Pinot Nero are the main grapes followed by Schiava.
Chardonnay is one of the world’s most popular grapes, Chardonnay is made in a wide range of styles from lean, to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. Bolder, richer, full-bodied and buttery Chardonnays are made using oak and are produced in California, Burgundy, and Australia. Unoaked chardonnays such as Chablis and those produced in Chile, New Zealand, and other parts of France are leaner and often crisp and mineraly, with delicate flavors. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.
1 x Brokenwood Cricket Pitch Semillon Sauvignon Blanc 2022 ~ Hunter Valley, Australia
16/20 Jancis Robinson
Bronze - The Wine Front (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2017 vintage)
Bronze - The Wine Front (2015 vintage)
Bronze - Campbell Mattinson, Halliday Wine Companion (2015 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2015 vintage)
5 Stars Winery - Halliday Wine Companion
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Grassy, lemony aromas, light-bodied clean and lively on the tongue. The palate is refreshing, with crisp acidity. A very good seafood white. " (2017 vintage)
Campbell Mattinson, Halliday Wine Companion "It's essentially crisp and fruit-driven, though a gentle slip of sweetness won't do its popularity any harm." (2015 vintage)
Huon Hooke, The Real Review "Parsley herbal aromas, a bit green, with almost a suggestion of basil. Simple, light-bodied, still fresh and in good drinking condition.' (2015 vintage)
James Halliday "A deservedly fashionable winery producing consistently excellent wines. Its big-selling Hunter Semillon provides the volume to balance the limited quantities of the flagships ILR Semillon and Graveyard Shiraz. Brokenwood purchased the Graveyard Vineyard from Hungerford Hill in '78 and has been working to totally rehabilitate the vineyard over the ensuing decades. It's been a vine by vine exercise, with a degree of experimentation of rootstocks and clonal material from other, even older vineyards. Next, there is a range of wines coming from regions including Beechworth (a major resource is the associated Indigo Vineyard), Orange, Central Ranges, McLaren Vale, Cowra and elsewhere. In 2017 Iain Riggs celebrated his 35th vintage at the helm of Brokenwood, offering a unique mix of winemaking skills, management of diverse business, and an unerring ability to keep Brokenwood's high profile fresh and newsworthy. He has also contributed a great deal to various wine industry organisations."
Established in 1970 Brokenwood Wines is one of Australia's most reputable premium wine labels and a must-visit in the Hunter Valley. It was established by Australia's leading wine critic, James Halliday.
Consistently listed as a 5-star winery, Brokenwood is home to the famous Graveyard Vineyard Shiraz, the highly acclaimed ILR Reserve Semillon, and the popular Cricket Pitch Range.
The Hunter Valley is the best-known and most highly prized wine region in New South Wales. It is known as the region where the Australian wine industry started. The valley's winemakers have pioneered two distinctive styles of wine (oaked Chardonnay and dry Semillon) and has retained a strong connection with both of them. The Hunter Valley's most famous wine style is its distinctive dry Semillon, made there since the 1870s. Hunter Valley Semillons are renowned for their ability to improve with age.
Sauvignon Blanc – Semillon is a classic white wine blend. It is most widely produced in France, most notably Bordeaux's Graves district, where both Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon are well-established varieties. It also has more recently caught on in Australia, particularly Margaret River. The versatile blend is typically made into crisp, dry wines, but it is also the blend of choice for the world's most prestigious sweet wine style, Sauternes. The blend is endowed with vibrant acidity and grassy aromas by Sauvignon Blanc, and its structure and mouthfeel from Semillon. This blend is a modern, simplified version of the classic White Bordeaux Blend, in which Muscadelle, Sauvignon Gris, Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Merlot Blanc may be added to the mix.
1 x Chateau Maucoil Côtes du Rhône Villages Blanc 2022 - Rhone, France
90/100 James Suckling (2021 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Robert Parker (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Spectator (2020 vintage)
Bronze - Wine Enthusiast (2020 vintage)
90/100 James Suckling (2019 vintage)
5 Stars - All about wine Ltd
4.5 Stars - Independent Spirits, Inc.
2 Stars - Le Guide Hachette des Vins
Organic
James Suckling "Plenty of mandarin-orange, ripe-nectarine and some white-flower character makes this juicy but supple dry white easy to enjoy. Excellent balance and at the long, silky finish. From organically grown grapes." (2021 vintage)
James Suckling "This has a fruity nose of nectarine, sliced apple, apricot and pineapple. It’s medium-bodied with a succulent, juicy and supple palate. Fresh finish. From organically grown grapes. " (2020 vintage)
Robert Parker "...is a plump, appealing white that combines tangerine and white peach notes. Medium-bodied, silky and harmonious, it's easy to drink—a satisfying wine that accompanies food rather than dominating it." (2020 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "This moderately full-bodied white highlights flavors of freshly pressed apple and pear accented by hints of smoke and salt. Made from organically grown grapes, it's a pleasantly spicy, juicy sip that finishes on a squirt of tangerine." (2020 vintage)
James Suckling "A pleasant white with aromas and flavors of sliced dried pears and apples. Medium to full body. Attractive finish." (2019 vintage)
Wine Enthusiast "It's a delightfully creamy, full-bodied white marked by yellow apple and tangerine flavors along with a hint of toasted marshmallow on the finish. A hedonistic but fresh-fruited sip at peak now" (20219 vintage)
Curious Wines "Fetching golden-blonde hue with an exotic, curvaceous feel and fresh, powerful notes of honeyed grapes, apple, lime tree and apricot. Fleshy and succulent, with a dry finish." (2018 vintage)
James Suckling 'Cooked-apple and white-peach aromas follow through to a medium body, fresh acidity and a round finish. From organically grown grapes. A blend of 50 per cent grenache blanc and 50 per cent clairette.' (2018 vintage)
Wine Spectator 'Delicious white peach, lemon curd, star fruit and honeysuckle notes glide through atop racy acidity, ending with lingering freshness. A kiss of brioche at the end adds a flattering hint. Grenache blanc and clairette.' (2018 vintage)
The history of Château Maucoil began several centuries ago. Ancient documents state that its first occupants were Romans who set up a base for Caesar’s legions. Later, Joseph de La Pise, Lord of Maucoil and archivist of the House of Orange-Nassau, the Dutch royal family, inherited the estate and the castle which was built in 1624. From then on, winegrowing became an intrinsic part of the history of Château Maucoil.
The 45 hectares of vines in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation have been organic agriculture since 2011. Château Maucoil uses ancient methods such as furrowing, forming mounds and ploughing to tend the vineyard.
Originally from Bordeaux, the Lavau family who now own Château Maucoil, have been involved with winemaking for generations, and have had vineyards ranging from Bordeaux to Tunisia. In 1964 they were seduced by the richness and quality of the Provencal soil and settled down to make wine in the Rhone Valley.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a historic village between the towns of Orange and Avignon, in France's southern Rhône Valley. It is famous for powerful, full-bodied red wines made predominantly from the classic southern Rhône grape trio: Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. These three varieties are behind the vast majority of the appellation's red wines, although a total of eighteen are approved for use – a mix of red and white grape varieties.
Southern Rhone White Blend is a term used to describe the various combinations of white wine grapes used in the southern half of the Rhone Valley. The wines themselves are not confined to the Rhone production zone and have been interpreted and replicated with varying degrees of success in the United States, Australia, Spain, North Africa and South America.
The principal varieties involved in a white wine from the southern Rhone are any combination of Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, Viognier, Ugni Blanc, Clairette, Bourboulenc and Picpoul.
1 x Mojo Prosecco NV ~ Victoria, Australia
Winemaker "....heady aromas of apple, fresh fruit and citrus. The palate is soft and approachable with a mouth filling freshness balanced with brilliant crisp acidity. Racy, apple, crunchy."
Mojo Prosecco is appealing and approachable with aromas of fresh cut crunchy green apple and zingy but creamy lemon-lime highlights, think lemon meringue and fresh strawberries. The palate is soft and approachable with a mouth filling freshness balanced with brilliant crisp acidity.
Mojo work with growers across South Australia to create a range of wines that capture the unique characteristics of each region and varietal. Free from the constraint of owning their own vineyards they believe they are able to make wines that each have their own unique story. Each harvest Mojo use the best grapes of the season in each region.
Prosecco is a pale and light grape indigenous to northern Italy that makes one of the countries most popular sparkling wines. Most Prosecco is made in an extra extra dry, or off dry, style offering fruity aromas of confected pears and peaches. A small percentage are made in a dry Brut style offering bracing green apple and citrus fruit.