Under $45 Award Winners - 6 Pack Value
Unlock the taste of victory with our under $45 award winners - 6 pack value. This exclusive collection brings together a selection of exceptional wines that have earned prestigious awards and recognition, all priced affordably.
1 x TarraWarra Estate Pinot Noir 2019 - Yarra Valley, Australia
93/100 Halliday wine Companion
94/100 Qwine
Australia's Top 52 wineries of 2020 - N#28 - Sydney Morning Herald
5-star winery – Halliday wine Companion
90/100 The wine Front (2015 vintage)
93/100 The wine Front (2014 vintage)
90/100 Jeremy Oliver (2012 vintage)
91/100 Halliday wine Companion awards
Halliday wine Companion awards, Jane Faulkner "Fragrant with so many spices, plus some toasty cedary oak too. A flush of ripe fruit works across the more medium-bodied palate offering a combo of rhubarb, cherries and pips plus chinotto tang. The tannins have some give and it's refreshing to the very last drop"
Sydney Morning Herald - Australia's Top 52 wineries of 2020 "TarraWarra Estate - #28. Very fine chardonnays and pinot noirs, especially under the MDB, Reserve and single-block labels. TarraWarra has recently extended its range to elegant barbera, nebbiolo, shiraz and an exemplary roussanne marsanne viognier blend. The 2017 vintage is exceptional across the board. The merlot and rosé are also among the best money can buy."
Qwine "Delicious density has me licking my lips. Delightful drinking really. Dark plums and earthy goodness make a move early. Strawberries and dried herbs tuck in behind with a subtle nudge of cloves. Some chocolate can be seen too. A touch of red apple acidity and fine spices run long on a persistent finish."
Halliday wine Companion “An elegant iteration of light, but very well balanced, Fragrant with so many spices, plus some toasty cedary oak too. A flush of ripe fruit works across the more medium-bodied palate offering a combo of rhubarb, cherries and pips plus chinotto tang. The tannins have some give and it's refreshing to the very last drop."
Wine Enthusiast "The Flagship wine from Tarrawarra Estate"
Stuart Knox, The Real Review "Cola, redcurrants and dry herb aromatics.....palate of red fruits and undergrowth notes."
The winemaker “...characterised by vibrancy and opulence....lifted raspberry aromas, with a hint of earthiness and subtle oak. The flavours combine full fruit with fine long tannins, finishing with the elegance and finesse that is the hallmark of TarraWarra Pinot Noir. MV6, 114, 115 and D5V12 clones, hand-picked, chilled overnight, destemmed, twice-daily pump-overs, matured in French oak (10% new) for 10 months.
The winemaker "The Estate range is grown and made with the same approach as the Reserve wines, are all handpicked and made with a focus on varietal expression.”
TarraWarra Estate has some of the Yarra Valley's oldest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, the estate is one of the region's foremost wineries. Located in one of Australia's best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir growing regions, Yarra Valley. Tarrawarra Estate is estate is rated by top Australian wine critic, James Halliday as “one of the top-tier wineries in the Yarra Valley”. It is best known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Established in 1983 by Marc Besen and wife Eva Besen, the 400-hectare TarraWarra is rated by James Halliday as “one of the top-tier wineries in the Yarra Valley”. TarraWarra Estate is best known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
The Yarra Valley is a well-respected Australian wine region which occupies the eastern half of the Port Phillip viticultural zone in the diminutive state of Victoria. At complete odds with the usual, hot and dry Shiraz-growing image of Australia, Yarra Valley is best known for its bright, complex wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Pinot Noir is the dominant red wine grape of Burgundy, now produced in wine regions all over the world, including western Germany, northern Italy, Chile, South Africa, Australia and, perhaps most notably, California, Oregon and New Zealand.
The essence of Pinot Noir wine is its aroma of strawberry and cherry (fresh red cherries in lighter wines and stewed black cherries in weightier examples), underpinned in the most complex examples by hints of forest floor. Well-built Pinot Noirs, particularly from warmer harvests, also exhibit notes of leather and violets, sometimes approaching the flavor spectrum of Syrah.
1 x Hewitson LuLu Shiraz 2019 - Barossa Valley, South Australia
92/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
90/100 wine Pilot
90/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
The Real Review “Young, dark and purple in the glass. Aromas of mulberry, geranium, dried herbs, anise and bouquet garni. Full-flavoured, fresh and really bright on the palate, with blackberry, spice, dark cherry. There's crunchy acidity, textured tannins, smart length and mouth-feel. A lovely Barossa shiraz in the modern genre.”
Wine Pilot "Great value for money and lovely to see this warm climate style have some restraint so you can enjoy with or without food, as you wish."
Regan Drew, wine Pilot "Abounds with fragrant dark fruits of black cherry, blood plum and wine gums, tempered by anise and clove spice. A briny earthiness grounds it all. The maturation in older oak brings frisky fruit freshness to the fore as it slips silkily along the medium bodied palate, plumped just enough with those spiced dark fruits and a coda of easy, yet firm tannins."
James Suckling "A soft and round red with lots of prunes and ripe fruit. Some spices and chocolate, too. Full and juicy." (2017 vintage)
Qantas "The palate showcases flavours of fresh fruits, fine tannins and soft fruit finish." (2018 vintage)
The winemaker “Dark red with purple hues. Classic cooler climate aromas of red fruits, pepper and spice. Fresh fruits, fine tannins and soft fruit finish.”
In early 2021, leading global publication wine Enthusiast included Hewitson in its top 10 list of “Vineyards Behind the World’s Most famous wines” alongside heralded blocks in Burgundy, Champagne, Piedmont and Napa Valley.
Australian wine Companion "Established in 1998 Hewitson winery is situated in the heart of the Barossa Valley on the historic Seppeltsfield Road and boasts some of the oldest vines in the world. Hewitson fruit is sourced from historic, dry-grown vineyards in the Barossa Valley and also from single site vineyards in Eden Valley, McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills."
Frederick Wildman "Dean Hewitson founded his eponymous winery in 1998. He is a highly respected Australian winemaker ...Hewitson has worked at wineries in Australia, France, Italy and Oregon. Hewitson then moved to the U.S. where he earned a Masters from UC-Davis. On his return home, Dean brought a wealth of knowledge, practical experience and a driving passion to produce wines not only from Barossa Valley but also from the McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills regions.
Hewitson fundamentally believes great wines are the expression of the soils they are grown in and the season in which they are grown. With his longstanding focus on terroir—specific terroir plots in fact—many of Hewitson’s wines are single vineyard. He sources grapes from not only his own vineyards but also from long-standing grower contracts including a few sourced from some of the oldest living, still productive vines on plots that date back to the mid-19th century and are pre-phylloxera. His ‘Old Garden’ Mourvèdre is a single-vineyard wine, whose vines were planted in 1853 in Barossa Valley and are reputed to be the oldest Mourvèdre vines in the world. Hewitson’s ‘Miss Harry’ is sourced from a Grenache vineyard planted in 1880, also thought to be the oldest Grenache in existence.
Due to Hewitson’s education and experience in Australia, California and France, Hewitson wines combine Old-World traditions with New-World fruit purity. And while he clearly excels with Rhône Valley grape varieties, Hewitson also produces award-winning Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. A practitioner in solar energy, water recycling and encouraging natural biodiversity, Hewitson produces wines in an environmentally sustainable fashion."
James Halliday "Dean Hewitson was a winemaker at Petaluma [one of Australia's leading wineries] for 10 years, during which time he managed to do three vintages in France and one in Oregon as well as undertaking his Masters at the University of California, Davis. It is hardly surprising that the wines are immaculately made from a technical viewpoint. Dean sources 30-year-old Riesling from the Eden Valley and 70-year-old shiraz from McLaren Vale; he also makes a Barossa Valley Mourvedre from vines planted in 1853 at Rowland Flat, and Barossa Valley Shiraz and Grenache from 60-year-old vines at Tanunda."
The Barossa Valley is an extremely important wine-producing region within the Barossa zone of South Australia, particularly associated with powerful red wines from the red wine grape variety Shiraz. A prestigious and internationally renowned region, it is not only home to some of the oldest vineyards and wineries in Australia but produces some of its most recognizable and sought-after brands. A striking feature of the Barossa Valley's wine landscape is the presence of very old vines, proudly showcased on many wine labels and during vineyard tours.
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.
Syrah is typically bold and full-bodied, with aromatic notes of smoke, black fruit and pepper spice. Stylistically, it can be round and fruity, or dense and tannic. And in warmer New World regions like Australia, Syrah is most often be called Shiraz.
winemakers who work in cooler-climate growing regions, both in the Old World and New World, tend to call their wines Syrah. The most famous examples come from the northern Rhône Valley of France, notably Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. In the New World, in regions like Sonoma Coast, California; Yarra Valley, Australia; and parts of Chile, the wines are called Syrah because they emulate the leaner, acid-driven, savory styles of the Old World French classics.
Shiraz tends to come from warmer growing climates, namely the South Australian regions of Barossa, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. Stylistically, these wines are lush, fruit-forward examples that embody the warmer, sunnier climate. Shiraz is so important to Australian viticulture that it is the most planted grape variety in the majority of Australian vineyards and has become virtually synonymous with the country's wine regions, and in particular the Barossa Valley.
1 x Patrick of Coonawarra Estate Shiraz 2015 ~ Coonawarra, South Australia
award-winning winery
Halliday wine Companion - 5 Star Rating
The winemaker "This wine has spent 24 months maturing in second use French and American oak, with the balance maturing in Stainless steel tanks before bottling. This adds a subtle oak flavour and complexity, whilst allowing the fruit to dominate and shine through. A trusted style, rich and full bodied with perfect balance. Made and released with age and complexity that will develop over the next 10 years."
Patrick of Coonawarra was founded by Patrick Tocaciu; one of Australia's leading wine (and AFL football) figures. Patrick's reputation for producing exceptional wine earned him many international accolades for the major labels he worked as Chief winemaker, including; Tollana, Penfolds, and Hollick wines. Patrick's distinguished reputation continued with the establishment of his own Patrick of Coonawarra Estate label. The wines are built on the solid foundation of extensive estate vineyards: 36 hectares in Coonawarra and 42 hectares in Wrattonbully. The Wrattonbully plantings contain shiraz, sauvignon blanc, and some of the riesling. All of the cabernets is grown in Coonawarra. The Estate is now managed by his oenologist son, Luke who continues the tradition of producing wines of varietal and regional excellence.
Coonawarra is the most important wine region within the Limestone Coast zone of South Australia, credited with producing some of the best red wines in the entire country, and often described as Australia's most famous terroir. It is located in the far south-east of the state, adjoining the border with Victoria south of Wrattonbully.
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.
Syrah is typically bold and full-bodied, with aromatic notes of smoke, black fruit and pepper spice. Stylistically, it can be round and fruity, or dense and tannic. And in warmer New World regions like Australia, Syrah is most often be called Shiraz.
winemakers who work in cooler-climate growing regions, both in the Old World and New World, tend to call their wines Syrah. The most famous examples come from the northern Rhône Valley of France, notably Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. In the New World, in regions like Sonoma Coast, California; Yarra Valley, Australia; and parts of Chile, the wines are called Syrah because they emulate the leaner, acid-driven, savoury styles of the Old World French classics.
Shiraz tends to come from warmer growing climates, like the South Australian regions of Barossa, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. Stylistically, these wines are lush, fruit-forward examples that embody the warmer, sunnier climate. Shiraz is so important to Australian viticulture that it is the most planted grape variety in the majority of Australian vineyards and has become virtually synonymous with the country's wine regions, and in particular the Barossa Valley.
1 x Rocca delle Macie Famiglia Zingarelli DOCG 2020 - Chianti Classico, Italy
93/100 Luca Gardini
91/100 James Suckling
91/100 international wine & Spirit Competition Panel Tasting
90/100 Falstaff Wein Guide Italien 2023 - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
93+/100 Luca Gardini (2019 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2019 vintage)
Kermode,Wieteke Teppema, Luke Harbor (2019 vintage)
90/100 Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler, Falstaff (2018 vintage)
91/100 James Suckling (2017 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
91/100 Bruce Sanderson, wine Specatator (2016 vintage)
92/100 Luca Gardini (2014 vintage)
90/100 Andrea Briccarello, Andrew Jefford, Susan Hulme MW (2014 vintage)
Gold Medal /best of Show - Mundus Vini (2019 vintage)
Gold Medal Mundus Vini (2018 vintage)
Bronze - IWSC (2017 vintage)
International wine & Spirit Competition "Refreshing and beautifully refined.....Dark, dense, and delectable with smooth, mouth-coating tannins, ripe red cherry, baked strawberry, bilberry and smoked meat.''
Luca Gardini "From one of the most recognisable labels of this denomination, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot marked by a nice aromatic and gustatory profile. Notes of raspberry to the nose, followed by rhubarb and wild iris nuances. 93+ Iodine tannins on the palate, persistence and freshness.''
James Suckling 'Aromas of dried strawberries, orange zest, stones and licorice, followed by a medium body with firm tannins rounding off the savory berry fruit.''
Falstaff Wein Guide Italien 2023 - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler ''Brilliant ruby with garnet glints. In the nose there's nuances of fresh cherries with a slightly savoury note emerging. Very juicy and mouth-filling on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and a medium-long finish.''
Luca Gardini ''In the Classico dedicated to the founder also all the crispness of Rocca delle Macìe grapes. The nose reveals notes of raspberry, then nutmeg and marjoram, ending of balsamic hints....fruity, crisp, with brackish 93+ tannins closing of a small red fruits taste.''
Falstaff - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler ''Bright ruby with a fine garnet edge. Very fragrant nose, fine cherry and some raspberry. On the palate much grip, in the core a little drying tannin, uncomplicated and honest.''
James Suckling ''Attractive black-cherry and orange-peel character follows through to a medium body, light tannins and a fruity finish."
Bruce Sanderson, wine Specatator "A dusting of bittersweet chocolate coats the black cherry and blueberry fruit in this firmly structured red. Bitter almond and earth accents chime in on the dry finish. best from 2021 through 2035
Andrea Briccarello, Andrew Jefford, Susan Hulme MW ''Seductive nose of violets, blueberry and plums, the simple sweet pleasures. A lively vitality to this wine and a long, persistent, perfumed finish.''
Luca Gardini "Dark fruit, a lot of blackberry and spice on the nose. Fruity again in the mouth, but also spicy due partly to the oak. A substantial savory sensation, which helps the drinkability. Long finish of licorice root."''.
International wine & Spirit Competition ''lenty of wood spices and dried fruit. The palate has a sweet start, with some strawberries and cinnamon spice, and a nice savoury finish with refreshing acidity.''
Rocca delle Macìe was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also 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.
The company estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).
The Chianti region in Italy's Tuscany wine growing region is split between Chianti and Chianti Classico. Accordingly, two separate DOCG designations apply to wines from the Chianti region: the Chianti Classico DOCG for the heartland of Chianti, and Chianti DOCG for all other Chianti regions. (In 1984, the Chianti region was promoted from DOC to DOCG - Italy’s highest classification - and in 1996, Chianti Classico - the historic heartland of the region - DOCG was created, which gave autonomy to that region. In the last 20 years, a consortium of Chianti Classico producers have researched new Sangiovese clones, replanted vineyards, updated cellar practices and generally made Chianti Classico DOCG a world-class appellation. Chianti Classico must contain a minimum of 75% Sangiovese. In the 2014 edition of its annual compendium of wine ratings, Gambero Rosso noted that Chianti Classico DOCG wines were noteworthy for their “significant return to a more defined style, true to tradition.” The typical Chianti Classico wine is a ruby-red, Sangiovese-based wine with aromas of violets and cherries and a hint of earthy spice.
The Chianti DOCG designation covers wines from six Chianti sub-zones (Colli Pisane, Colli Fiorentini, Colli Senesi, Colli Aretini, Montalbano and Rufina) as well as all other Chianti wines. The Chianti Classico DOCG is located in the very center of Tuscany, between Florence and Sienna.
Tuscany is Italy's third most planted region (behind Sicily and Apulia) but it is eighth in terms of output. After Piedmont and the Veneto, Tuscany produces the third-highest volume of DOC/DOCG wines. More than 80% of the regions' production is in red wine, with the Sangiovese grape being Tuscany's' most prominent grape. Trebbiano is the leading white variety of the region.
The history of viticulture in Tuscany dates back to the Etruscans in the 8th century BC. From the fall of the Roman Empire and throughout the Middle Ages, monasteries were the main purveyors of wines in the region. As the aristocratic and merchant classes emerged, they inherited the share-cropping system of agriculture known as mezzadria. Many Tuscan landowners would turn their half of the grape harvest into wine that would be sold to merchants in Florence. Following the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Tuscany returned to the rule of the Habsburgs. Chianti, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Super Tuscan are Tuscany’s best known wines.
Sangiovese (or Nielluccio in Corsica), a dark-berried vine, is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy. Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany, and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the core constituent in some of the great names in Italian wine. Italy's love affair with Sangiovese – and indeed the world's – is generations old, though recent grapevine research suggests the variety is not as ancient as once thought.
1 x Pikes Traditional Riesling 2022 - Clare Valley, Australia
95/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
95/100 Sam Kim, wine Orbit
94/100 James Suckling
93/100 Mike Bennie, Halliday wine Companion
93/100 Campbell Mattinson, The wine Front
93/100 Angus Hughson, wine Pilot
Bronze - CellarTracker
95/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
95/100 Jeni Port, wine Pilot (2021 vintage)
95/100 Ken Gargett (2021 vintage)
94/100 James Suckling (2021 vintage)
93/100 Erin Larkin, Halliday wine Companion (2021 vintage)
93/100 The wine Front (2021 vintage)
5 Stars - Halliday wine Companion
People Choice award 2023
Gold - Melbourne wine Show (2021 vintage)
Vegan
Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Lovely fragrant aromas of lemon, lime, bath salts, white flowers and feijoa. The palate has a real lushness of flavour, citrus, just-ripe stone fruit, lemon pith and talc. The acidity has a lively purity and drive and the length is really impressive. An outstanding wine and top value."
Sam Kim, wine Orbit "Beautifully fine and elegant, the wine shows lemon zest, crunchy apple and jasmine aromas on the nose, followed by a brilliantly focused palate delivering pristine fruit flavours with racy acidity. It’s mouth-watering and lingering with excellent fruit purity."
James Suckling "Wonderfully fragrant nose of lemon blossom, then juicy and vibrant on the sleek and super-straight palate, this is a prototypical Clare Valley dry riesling with a lot of lime fruit and a very zesty finish."
Mike Bennie, Halliday wine Companion "You could rationalise that Pikes’ Traditionale Riesling is a bellwether wine that gives drinkers a good indication of what to expect from Clare riesling each year. At times unnervingly reliable. The ’22 is good gear – juicy, bright, zingy with acidity, ticklish and brisk in acid profile with juicy green apple and pink grapefruit fruitiness set around skittish, laser-like tang. Scents are good too, with floral, citrus blossom and jasmine and whiffs of lime and grapefruit again in the mix. It finds a good balance between fruitiness, refreshment factor and tension, too. A great drink right here."
Campbell Mattinson, The wine Front "It has body, it has flavour, it has lilt, it has length. Lime, apple and riverstone flavours ripple throughout, energetically for sure but with enough meander for you to have time to enjoy it. It’s racy but it’s more than that, and that’s its charm."
Angus Hughson, wine Pilot "Exceptional value here in this Clare Valley Riesling which punches well above its weight with serious intensity of lime pith and wet stone aromas that are robust and forceful. The class is repeated on the palate with fantastic density of ripe fruit underpinned by firm acidity that drives a lengthy finish. Delicious now but has the power and integrity to also age well."
Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Very youthful in the glass. Aromas of lemon rind, white flowers, talc and jasmine. Zesty, lemony and tangy on the palate, lovely brightness and freshness, quite delicate. A lovely line of crunchy acidity rounds the flavours out very nicely. The length is impressive." (2021 vintage)
James Suckling "Bright lime and apple aromas here with a very fresh stance. Some white peach in the mix, too. The palate has a wealth of powerful lime and white-peach flavor with good depth and concentration. Impressive." (2021 vintage)
Erin Larkin, Halliday wine Companion "Pure joy here! Lime zest, lemon pith, citrus blossom, brine, green apple skins and plenty of plush – almost ripe – stone fruit on the palate. This is generous and attractive, the acidity providing the tension and structure that it needs to elevate it into deliciousness. And delicious it is." (2021 vintage)
Pikes is a prestigious winery in South Australia's Clare Valley, established in 1984 by Neil and Andrew Pike, whose viticultural roots go back to the late 1800s. Situated in the picturesque Clare Valley, the Estate is comprised of approximately 100 hectares of rolling slopes in Polish Hill River, an eastern sub-region of the Clare Valley.
Known for its cool climate and diverse grape varieties, Pikes showcases premium wines with distinct characters and flavors due to the unique terroir and altitude.
After an almost 20-year career with Penfolds wines and Southcorp wine Group, Andrew joined Pikes on a full-time basis in 1998 to oversee viticultural operations and manage the growing family business.
Pikes is particularly renowned for its high-quality Riesling and other cool-climate wines, praised for vibrant acidity, citrus flavors, and exceptional aging potential. Whilst they are best known for world-class Riesling, they have been growing Shiraz and Cabernet for 35 years and have 20 different grape varieties planted on their estate, producing a wide range of wine styles to suit all tastes.
Pikes pride themselves on producing quality handcrafted wines, that reflect vintage, variety, and region. The Pike family has been producing quality wine, beer, and aerated waters in South Australia since 1886 it is a family tradition of which they should be very proud.
Their vineyards in Clare Valley grow various grape varieties, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and environmental responsibility.
Their portfolio includes Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and unique blends, all crafted with a dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, Pikes has garnered numerous awards, establishing itself as a top producer in the Clare Valley, and gaining recognition both nationally and internationally for their excellent and consistent wines.
Riesling is a light-skinned, aromatic grape of German origin which is – if the majority of top wine critics are to be believed – the world's finest white wine grape variety. The Riesling vine holds a very different place in the wine world to such great grapes as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Chardonnay. While these immensely popular varieties have conquered every corner of the winegrowing world, Riesling is conspicuously absent from the core wine regions of France, Spain and Italy. Riesling's home is the regions that trace the middle Rhine and the lower Mosel, two of Europe's great wine rivers.
1 x Sticks Chardonnay 2021 - Yarra Valley, Australia
Bronze - Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion
Bronze - Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion (2020 vintage)
90/100 Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion (2018 vintage)
90/100 Steven Creber, Halliday wine Companion (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2017 vintage)
Bronze - international wine Challenge (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Hong Kong IWSC (2017 vintage)
Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion "...displaying orchard fruits, grapefruit pith and a gentle creaminess. The palate is textured, even and moderately long."
Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion "Ripe with nectarine and peach fruit, together with a little candied ginger. Gently creamy, textured, open and ready to drink." (2020 vintage)
Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion "An easygoing, drink-me-now wine with dabs of lemon and curd, herbs and spices. While it's short on the finish, it has savouriness and a hint of creamy lees texture. It meets the brief well." (2019 vintage)
Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion "Fun and flirty with easy-drinking appeal. Some stone fruit, lemon and fresh acidity with a smidge of texture." (2018 vintage)
Steven Creber, Halliday wine Companion "Yarra chardonnay by the numbers here, but expertly executed, and a fine vintage helps. Stone fruit, citrus and melon are the prevailing aromas, some complexity injected with a nutty oak-and-or-lees character well integrated. Ripe fruit on the palate, a mirror image of the bouquet, with soft but fresh acidity to carry it along, and then a twist of grapefruit on the finish." (2017 vintage)
Sticks winery has been Australia's Yarra Valley's quiet achiever for over 20 years and now stands among the region's most well-known wineries. Established by the famous footballer-turned winemaker, Rob Dolan who established Punt winery and his own Roba. Dolan label. Sticks sources fruit from Victoria's famous Yarra Valley, which is known as one of Australia's leading cool-climate wine regions. Sticks wines are modern takes on the Yarra Valley classics, all crafted with drinkability front of mind.
The Yarra Valley is a well-respected Australian wine region that occupies the eastern half of the Port Phillip viticultural zone in the diminutive state of Victoria. At complete odds with the usual, hot and dry Shiraz-growing image of Australia, Yarra Valley is best known for its bright, complex wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
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 minerally, with delicate flavours. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.
Unlock the taste of victory with our under $45 award winners - 6 pack value. This exclusive collection brings together a selection of exceptional wines that have earned prestigious awards and recognition, all priced affordably.
1 x TarraWarra Estate Pinot Noir 2019 - Yarra Valley, Australia
93/100 Halliday wine Companion
94/100 Qwine
Australia's Top 52 wineries of 2020 - N#28 - Sydney Morning Herald
5-star winery – Halliday wine Companion
90/100 The wine Front (2015 vintage)
93/100 The wine Front (2014 vintage)
90/100 Jeremy Oliver (2012 vintage)
91/100 Halliday wine Companion awards
Halliday wine Companion awards, Jane Faulkner "Fragrant with so many spices, plus some toasty cedary oak too. A flush of ripe fruit works across the more medium-bodied palate offering a combo of rhubarb, cherries and pips plus chinotto tang. The tannins have some give and it's refreshing to the very last drop"
Sydney Morning Herald - Australia's Top 52 wineries of 2020 "TarraWarra Estate - #28. Very fine chardonnays and pinot noirs, especially under the MDB, Reserve and single-block labels. TarraWarra has recently extended its range to elegant barbera, nebbiolo, shiraz and an exemplary roussanne marsanne viognier blend. The 2017 vintage is exceptional across the board. The merlot and rosé are also among the best money can buy."
Qwine "Delicious density has me licking my lips. Delightful drinking really. Dark plums and earthy goodness make a move early. Strawberries and dried herbs tuck in behind with a subtle nudge of cloves. Some chocolate can be seen too. A touch of red apple acidity and fine spices run long on a persistent finish."
Halliday wine Companion “An elegant iteration of light, but very well balanced, Fragrant with so many spices, plus some toasty cedary oak too. A flush of ripe fruit works across the more medium-bodied palate offering a combo of rhubarb, cherries and pips plus chinotto tang. The tannins have some give and it's refreshing to the very last drop."
Wine Enthusiast "The Flagship wine from Tarrawarra Estate"
Stuart Knox, The Real Review "Cola, redcurrants and dry herb aromatics.....palate of red fruits and undergrowth notes."
The winemaker “...characterised by vibrancy and opulence....lifted raspberry aromas, with a hint of earthiness and subtle oak. The flavours combine full fruit with fine long tannins, finishing with the elegance and finesse that is the hallmark of TarraWarra Pinot Noir. MV6, 114, 115 and D5V12 clones, hand-picked, chilled overnight, destemmed, twice-daily pump-overs, matured in French oak (10% new) for 10 months.
The winemaker "The Estate range is grown and made with the same approach as the Reserve wines, are all handpicked and made with a focus on varietal expression.”
TarraWarra Estate has some of the Yarra Valley's oldest Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, the estate is one of the region's foremost wineries. Located in one of Australia's best Chardonnay and Pinot Noir growing regions, Yarra Valley. Tarrawarra Estate is estate is rated by top Australian wine critic, James Halliday as “one of the top-tier wineries in the Yarra Valley”. It is best known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Established in 1983 by Marc Besen and wife Eva Besen, the 400-hectare TarraWarra is rated by James Halliday as “one of the top-tier wineries in the Yarra Valley”. TarraWarra Estate is best known for its exceptional Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
The Yarra Valley is a well-respected Australian wine region which occupies the eastern half of the Port Phillip viticultural zone in the diminutive state of Victoria. At complete odds with the usual, hot and dry Shiraz-growing image of Australia, Yarra Valley is best known for its bright, complex wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Pinot Noir is the dominant red wine grape of Burgundy, now produced in wine regions all over the world, including western Germany, northern Italy, Chile, South Africa, Australia and, perhaps most notably, California, Oregon and New Zealand.
The essence of Pinot Noir wine is its aroma of strawberry and cherry (fresh red cherries in lighter wines and stewed black cherries in weightier examples), underpinned in the most complex examples by hints of forest floor. Well-built Pinot Noirs, particularly from warmer harvests, also exhibit notes of leather and violets, sometimes approaching the flavor spectrum of Syrah.
1 x Hewitson LuLu Shiraz 2019 - Barossa Valley, South Australia
92/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
90/100 wine Pilot
90/100 James Suckling (2018 vintage)
The Real Review “Young, dark and purple in the glass. Aromas of mulberry, geranium, dried herbs, anise and bouquet garni. Full-flavoured, fresh and really bright on the palate, with blackberry, spice, dark cherry. There's crunchy acidity, textured tannins, smart length and mouth-feel. A lovely Barossa shiraz in the modern genre.”
Wine Pilot "Great value for money and lovely to see this warm climate style have some restraint so you can enjoy with or without food, as you wish."
Regan Drew, wine Pilot "Abounds with fragrant dark fruits of black cherry, blood plum and wine gums, tempered by anise and clove spice. A briny earthiness grounds it all. The maturation in older oak brings frisky fruit freshness to the fore as it slips silkily along the medium bodied palate, plumped just enough with those spiced dark fruits and a coda of easy, yet firm tannins."
James Suckling "A soft and round red with lots of prunes and ripe fruit. Some spices and chocolate, too. Full and juicy." (2017 vintage)
Qantas "The palate showcases flavours of fresh fruits, fine tannins and soft fruit finish." (2018 vintage)
The winemaker “Dark red with purple hues. Classic cooler climate aromas of red fruits, pepper and spice. Fresh fruits, fine tannins and soft fruit finish.”
In early 2021, leading global publication wine Enthusiast included Hewitson in its top 10 list of “Vineyards Behind the World’s Most famous wines” alongside heralded blocks in Burgundy, Champagne, Piedmont and Napa Valley.
Australian wine Companion "Established in 1998 Hewitson winery is situated in the heart of the Barossa Valley on the historic Seppeltsfield Road and boasts some of the oldest vines in the world. Hewitson fruit is sourced from historic, dry-grown vineyards in the Barossa Valley and also from single site vineyards in Eden Valley, McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills."
Frederick Wildman "Dean Hewitson founded his eponymous winery in 1998. He is a highly respected Australian winemaker ...Hewitson has worked at wineries in Australia, France, Italy and Oregon. Hewitson then moved to the U.S. where he earned a Masters from UC-Davis. On his return home, Dean brought a wealth of knowledge, practical experience and a driving passion to produce wines not only from Barossa Valley but also from the McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills regions.
Hewitson fundamentally believes great wines are the expression of the soils they are grown in and the season in which they are grown. With his longstanding focus on terroir—specific terroir plots in fact—many of Hewitson’s wines are single vineyard. He sources grapes from not only his own vineyards but also from long-standing grower contracts including a few sourced from some of the oldest living, still productive vines on plots that date back to the mid-19th century and are pre-phylloxera. His ‘Old Garden’ Mourvèdre is a single-vineyard wine, whose vines were planted in 1853 in Barossa Valley and are reputed to be the oldest Mourvèdre vines in the world. Hewitson’s ‘Miss Harry’ is sourced from a Grenache vineyard planted in 1880, also thought to be the oldest Grenache in existence.
Due to Hewitson’s education and experience in Australia, California and France, Hewitson wines combine Old-World traditions with New-World fruit purity. And while he clearly excels with Rhône Valley grape varieties, Hewitson also produces award-winning Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. A practitioner in solar energy, water recycling and encouraging natural biodiversity, Hewitson produces wines in an environmentally sustainable fashion."
James Halliday "Dean Hewitson was a winemaker at Petaluma [one of Australia's leading wineries] for 10 years, during which time he managed to do three vintages in France and one in Oregon as well as undertaking his Masters at the University of California, Davis. It is hardly surprising that the wines are immaculately made from a technical viewpoint. Dean sources 30-year-old Riesling from the Eden Valley and 70-year-old shiraz from McLaren Vale; he also makes a Barossa Valley Mourvedre from vines planted in 1853 at Rowland Flat, and Barossa Valley Shiraz and Grenache from 60-year-old vines at Tanunda."
The Barossa Valley is an extremely important wine-producing region within the Barossa zone of South Australia, particularly associated with powerful red wines from the red wine grape variety Shiraz. A prestigious and internationally renowned region, it is not only home to some of the oldest vineyards and wineries in Australia but produces some of its most recognizable and sought-after brands. A striking feature of the Barossa Valley's wine landscape is the presence of very old vines, proudly showcased on many wine labels and during vineyard tours.
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.
Syrah is typically bold and full-bodied, with aromatic notes of smoke, black fruit and pepper spice. Stylistically, it can be round and fruity, or dense and tannic. And in warmer New World regions like Australia, Syrah is most often be called Shiraz.
winemakers who work in cooler-climate growing regions, both in the Old World and New World, tend to call their wines Syrah. The most famous examples come from the northern Rhône Valley of France, notably Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. In the New World, in regions like Sonoma Coast, California; Yarra Valley, Australia; and parts of Chile, the wines are called Syrah because they emulate the leaner, acid-driven, savory styles of the Old World French classics.
Shiraz tends to come from warmer growing climates, namely the South Australian regions of Barossa, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. Stylistically, these wines are lush, fruit-forward examples that embody the warmer, sunnier climate. Shiraz is so important to Australian viticulture that it is the most planted grape variety in the majority of Australian vineyards and has become virtually synonymous with the country's wine regions, and in particular the Barossa Valley.
1 x Patrick of Coonawarra Estate Shiraz 2015 ~ Coonawarra, South Australia
award-winning winery
Halliday wine Companion - 5 Star Rating
The winemaker "This wine has spent 24 months maturing in second use French and American oak, with the balance maturing in Stainless steel tanks before bottling. This adds a subtle oak flavour and complexity, whilst allowing the fruit to dominate and shine through. A trusted style, rich and full bodied with perfect balance. Made and released with age and complexity that will develop over the next 10 years."
Patrick of Coonawarra was founded by Patrick Tocaciu; one of Australia's leading wine (and AFL football) figures. Patrick's reputation for producing exceptional wine earned him many international accolades for the major labels he worked as Chief winemaker, including; Tollana, Penfolds, and Hollick wines. Patrick's distinguished reputation continued with the establishment of his own Patrick of Coonawarra Estate label. The wines are built on the solid foundation of extensive estate vineyards: 36 hectares in Coonawarra and 42 hectares in Wrattonbully. The Wrattonbully plantings contain shiraz, sauvignon blanc, and some of the riesling. All of the cabernets is grown in Coonawarra. The Estate is now managed by his oenologist son, Luke who continues the tradition of producing wines of varietal and regional excellence.
Coonawarra is the most important wine region within the Limestone Coast zone of South Australia, credited with producing some of the best red wines in the entire country, and often described as Australia's most famous terroir. It is located in the far south-east of the state, adjoining the border with Victoria south of Wrattonbully.
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.
Syrah is typically bold and full-bodied, with aromatic notes of smoke, black fruit and pepper spice. Stylistically, it can be round and fruity, or dense and tannic. And in warmer New World regions like Australia, Syrah is most often be called Shiraz.
winemakers who work in cooler-climate growing regions, both in the Old World and New World, tend to call their wines Syrah. The most famous examples come from the northern Rhône Valley of France, notably Hermitage and Côte-Rôtie. In the New World, in regions like Sonoma Coast, California; Yarra Valley, Australia; and parts of Chile, the wines are called Syrah because they emulate the leaner, acid-driven, savoury styles of the Old World French classics.
Shiraz tends to come from warmer growing climates, like the South Australian regions of Barossa, McLaren Vale and Adelaide Hills. Stylistically, these wines are lush, fruit-forward examples that embody the warmer, sunnier climate. Shiraz is so important to Australian viticulture that it is the most planted grape variety in the majority of Australian vineyards and has become virtually synonymous with the country's wine regions, and in particular the Barossa Valley.
1 x Rocca delle Macie Famiglia Zingarelli DOCG 2020 - Chianti Classico, Italy
93/100 Luca Gardini
91/100 James Suckling
91/100 international wine & Spirit Competition Panel Tasting
90/100 Falstaff Wein Guide Italien 2023 - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler
93+/100 Luca Gardini (2019 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2019 vintage)
Kermode,Wieteke Teppema, Luke Harbor (2019 vintage)
90/100 Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler, Falstaff (2018 vintage)
91/100 James Suckling (2017 vintage)
92/100 James Suckling (2016 vintage)
91/100 Bruce Sanderson, wine Specatator (2016 vintage)
92/100 Luca Gardini (2014 vintage)
90/100 Andrea Briccarello, Andrew Jefford, Susan Hulme MW (2014 vintage)
Gold Medal /best of Show - Mundus Vini (2019 vintage)
Gold Medal Mundus Vini (2018 vintage)
Bronze - IWSC (2017 vintage)
International wine & Spirit Competition "Refreshing and beautifully refined.....Dark, dense, and delectable with smooth, mouth-coating tannins, ripe red cherry, baked strawberry, bilberry and smoked meat.''
Luca Gardini "From one of the most recognisable labels of this denomination, a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot marked by a nice aromatic and gustatory profile. Notes of raspberry to the nose, followed by rhubarb and wild iris nuances. 93+ Iodine tannins on the palate, persistence and freshness.''
James Suckling 'Aromas of dried strawberries, orange zest, stones and licorice, followed by a medium body with firm tannins rounding off the savory berry fruit.''
Falstaff Wein Guide Italien 2023 - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler ''Brilliant ruby with garnet glints. In the nose there's nuances of fresh cherries with a slightly savoury note emerging. Very juicy and mouth-filling on the palate, with fine-grained tannins and a medium-long finish.''
Luca Gardini ''In the Classico dedicated to the founder also all the crispness of Rocca delle Macìe grapes. The nose reveals notes of raspberry, then nutmeg and marjoram, ending of balsamic hints....fruity, crisp, with brackish 93+ tannins closing of a small red fruits taste.''
Falstaff - Othmar Kiem, Simon Staffler ''Bright ruby with a fine garnet edge. Very fragrant nose, fine cherry and some raspberry. On the palate much grip, in the core a little drying tannin, uncomplicated and honest.''
James Suckling ''Attractive black-cherry and orange-peel character follows through to a medium body, light tannins and a fruity finish."
Bruce Sanderson, wine Specatator "A dusting of bittersweet chocolate coats the black cherry and blueberry fruit in this firmly structured red. Bitter almond and earth accents chime in on the dry finish. best from 2021 through 2035
Andrea Briccarello, Andrew Jefford, Susan Hulme MW ''Seductive nose of violets, blueberry and plums, the simple sweet pleasures. A lively vitality to this wine and a long, persistent, perfumed finish.''
Luca Gardini "Dark fruit, a lot of blackberry and spice on the nose. Fruity again in the mouth, but also spicy due partly to the oak. A substantial savory sensation, which helps the drinkability. Long finish of licorice root."''.
International wine & Spirit Competition ''lenty of wood spices and dried fruit. The palate has a sweet start, with some strawberries and cinnamon spice, and a nice savoury finish with refreshing acidity.''
Rocca delle Macìe was established in 1973, when film producer Italo Zingarelli – of Ettore Scola’s “We All Loved Each Other So Much” fame, and also 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.
The company estate now extends to more than 500 hectares (1250 acres) with, in total, more than 200 (500 acres) used as vineyards and 22 (54 acres) as olive groves, subdivided across the company’s six estates: Le Macìe, Sant’Alfonso, Fizzano e le Tavolelle in the Chianti Classico Area, in addition to the Campomaccione and Casa Maria estates in the Morellino di Scansano Area (Maremma).
The Chianti region in Italy's Tuscany wine growing region is split between Chianti and Chianti Classico. Accordingly, two separate DOCG designations apply to wines from the Chianti region: the Chianti Classico DOCG for the heartland of Chianti, and Chianti DOCG for all other Chianti regions. (In 1984, the Chianti region was promoted from DOC to DOCG - Italy’s highest classification - and in 1996, Chianti Classico - the historic heartland of the region - DOCG was created, which gave autonomy to that region. In the last 20 years, a consortium of Chianti Classico producers have researched new Sangiovese clones, replanted vineyards, updated cellar practices and generally made Chianti Classico DOCG a world-class appellation. Chianti Classico must contain a minimum of 75% Sangiovese. In the 2014 edition of its annual compendium of wine ratings, Gambero Rosso noted that Chianti Classico DOCG wines were noteworthy for their “significant return to a more defined style, true to tradition.” The typical Chianti Classico wine is a ruby-red, Sangiovese-based wine with aromas of violets and cherries and a hint of earthy spice.
The Chianti DOCG designation covers wines from six Chianti sub-zones (Colli Pisane, Colli Fiorentini, Colli Senesi, Colli Aretini, Montalbano and Rufina) as well as all other Chianti wines. The Chianti Classico DOCG is located in the very center of Tuscany, between Florence and Sienna.
Tuscany is Italy's third most planted region (behind Sicily and Apulia) but it is eighth in terms of output. After Piedmont and the Veneto, Tuscany produces the third-highest volume of DOC/DOCG wines. More than 80% of the regions' production is in red wine, with the Sangiovese grape being Tuscany's' most prominent grape. Trebbiano is the leading white variety of the region.
The history of viticulture in Tuscany dates back to the Etruscans in the 8th century BC. From the fall of the Roman Empire and throughout the Middle Ages, monasteries were the main purveyors of wines in the region. As the aristocratic and merchant classes emerged, they inherited the share-cropping system of agriculture known as mezzadria. Many Tuscan landowners would turn their half of the grape harvest into wine that would be sold to merchants in Florence. Following the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Tuscany returned to the rule of the Habsburgs. Chianti, Chianti Classico, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Super Tuscan are Tuscany’s best known wines.
Sangiovese (or Nielluccio in Corsica), a dark-berried vine, is the most widely planted grape variety in Italy. Virtually synonymous with the red wines of Tuscany, and all the romanticism that goes with the territory, Sangiovese is the core constituent in some of the great names in Italian wine. Italy's love affair with Sangiovese – and indeed the world's – is generations old, though recent grapevine research suggests the variety is not as ancient as once thought.
1 x Pikes Traditional Riesling 2022 - Clare Valley, Australia
95/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review
95/100 Sam Kim, wine Orbit
94/100 James Suckling
93/100 Mike Bennie, Halliday wine Companion
93/100 Campbell Mattinson, The wine Front
93/100 Angus Hughson, wine Pilot
Bronze - CellarTracker
95/100 Aaron Brasher, The Real Review (2021 vintage)
95/100 Jeni Port, wine Pilot (2021 vintage)
95/100 Ken Gargett (2021 vintage)
94/100 James Suckling (2021 vintage)
93/100 Erin Larkin, Halliday wine Companion (2021 vintage)
93/100 The wine Front (2021 vintage)
5 Stars - Halliday wine Companion
People Choice award 2023
Gold - Melbourne wine Show (2021 vintage)
Vegan
Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Lovely fragrant aromas of lemon, lime, bath salts, white flowers and feijoa. The palate has a real lushness of flavour, citrus, just-ripe stone fruit, lemon pith and talc. The acidity has a lively purity and drive and the length is really impressive. An outstanding wine and top value."
Sam Kim, wine Orbit "Beautifully fine and elegant, the wine shows lemon zest, crunchy apple and jasmine aromas on the nose, followed by a brilliantly focused palate delivering pristine fruit flavours with racy acidity. It’s mouth-watering and lingering with excellent fruit purity."
James Suckling "Wonderfully fragrant nose of lemon blossom, then juicy and vibrant on the sleek and super-straight palate, this is a prototypical Clare Valley dry riesling with a lot of lime fruit and a very zesty finish."
Mike Bennie, Halliday wine Companion "You could rationalise that Pikes’ Traditionale Riesling is a bellwether wine that gives drinkers a good indication of what to expect from Clare riesling each year. At times unnervingly reliable. The ’22 is good gear – juicy, bright, zingy with acidity, ticklish and brisk in acid profile with juicy green apple and pink grapefruit fruitiness set around skittish, laser-like tang. Scents are good too, with floral, citrus blossom and jasmine and whiffs of lime and grapefruit again in the mix. It finds a good balance between fruitiness, refreshment factor and tension, too. A great drink right here."
Campbell Mattinson, The wine Front "It has body, it has flavour, it has lilt, it has length. Lime, apple and riverstone flavours ripple throughout, energetically for sure but with enough meander for you to have time to enjoy it. It’s racy but it’s more than that, and that’s its charm."
Angus Hughson, wine Pilot "Exceptional value here in this Clare Valley Riesling which punches well above its weight with serious intensity of lime pith and wet stone aromas that are robust and forceful. The class is repeated on the palate with fantastic density of ripe fruit underpinned by firm acidity that drives a lengthy finish. Delicious now but has the power and integrity to also age well."
Aaron Brasher, The Real Review "Very youthful in the glass. Aromas of lemon rind, white flowers, talc and jasmine. Zesty, lemony and tangy on the palate, lovely brightness and freshness, quite delicate. A lovely line of crunchy acidity rounds the flavours out very nicely. The length is impressive." (2021 vintage)
James Suckling "Bright lime and apple aromas here with a very fresh stance. Some white peach in the mix, too. The palate has a wealth of powerful lime and white-peach flavor with good depth and concentration. Impressive." (2021 vintage)
Erin Larkin, Halliday wine Companion "Pure joy here! Lime zest, lemon pith, citrus blossom, brine, green apple skins and plenty of plush – almost ripe – stone fruit on the palate. This is generous and attractive, the acidity providing the tension and structure that it needs to elevate it into deliciousness. And delicious it is." (2021 vintage)
Pikes is a prestigious winery in South Australia's Clare Valley, established in 1984 by Neil and Andrew Pike, whose viticultural roots go back to the late 1800s. Situated in the picturesque Clare Valley, the Estate is comprised of approximately 100 hectares of rolling slopes in Polish Hill River, an eastern sub-region of the Clare Valley.
Known for its cool climate and diverse grape varieties, Pikes showcases premium wines with distinct characters and flavors due to the unique terroir and altitude.
After an almost 20-year career with Penfolds wines and Southcorp wine Group, Andrew joined Pikes on a full-time basis in 1998 to oversee viticultural operations and manage the growing family business.
Pikes is particularly renowned for its high-quality Riesling and other cool-climate wines, praised for vibrant acidity, citrus flavors, and exceptional aging potential. Whilst they are best known for world-class Riesling, they have been growing Shiraz and Cabernet for 35 years and have 20 different grape varieties planted on their estate, producing a wide range of wine styles to suit all tastes.
Pikes pride themselves on producing quality handcrafted wines, that reflect vintage, variety, and region. The Pike family has been producing quality wine, beer, and aerated waters in South Australia since 1886 it is a family tradition of which they should be very proud.
Their vineyards in Clare Valley grow various grape varieties, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and environmental responsibility.
Their portfolio includes Riesling, Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and unique blends, all crafted with a dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Over the years, Pikes has garnered numerous awards, establishing itself as a top producer in the Clare Valley, and gaining recognition both nationally and internationally for their excellent and consistent wines.
Riesling is a light-skinned, aromatic grape of German origin which is – if the majority of top wine critics are to be believed – the world's finest white wine grape variety. The Riesling vine holds a very different place in the wine world to such great grapes as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot or Chardonnay. While these immensely popular varieties have conquered every corner of the winegrowing world, Riesling is conspicuously absent from the core wine regions of France, Spain and Italy. Riesling's home is the regions that trace the middle Rhine and the lower Mosel, two of Europe's great wine rivers.
1 x Sticks Chardonnay 2021 - Yarra Valley, Australia
Bronze - Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion
Bronze - Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion (2020 vintage)
90/100 Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion (2019 vintage)
Bronze - Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion (2018 vintage)
90/100 Steven Creber, Halliday wine Companion (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Huon Hooke, The Real Review (2017 vintage)
Bronze - international wine Challenge (2017 vintage)
Bronze - Hong Kong IWSC (2017 vintage)
Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion "...displaying orchard fruits, grapefruit pith and a gentle creaminess. The palate is textured, even and moderately long."
Philip Rich, Halliday wine Companion "Ripe with nectarine and peach fruit, together with a little candied ginger. Gently creamy, textured, open and ready to drink." (2020 vintage)
Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion "An easygoing, drink-me-now wine with dabs of lemon and curd, herbs and spices. While it's short on the finish, it has savouriness and a hint of creamy lees texture. It meets the brief well." (2019 vintage)
Jane Faulkner, Halliday wine Companion "Fun and flirty with easy-drinking appeal. Some stone fruit, lemon and fresh acidity with a smidge of texture." (2018 vintage)
Steven Creber, Halliday wine Companion "Yarra chardonnay by the numbers here, but expertly executed, and a fine vintage helps. Stone fruit, citrus and melon are the prevailing aromas, some complexity injected with a nutty oak-and-or-lees character well integrated. Ripe fruit on the palate, a mirror image of the bouquet, with soft but fresh acidity to carry it along, and then a twist of grapefruit on the finish." (2017 vintage)
Sticks winery has been Australia's Yarra Valley's quiet achiever for over 20 years and now stands among the region's most well-known wineries. Established by the famous footballer-turned winemaker, Rob Dolan who established Punt winery and his own Roba. Dolan label. Sticks sources fruit from Victoria's famous Yarra Valley, which is known as one of Australia's leading cool-climate wine regions. Sticks wines are modern takes on the Yarra Valley classics, all crafted with drinkability front of mind.
The Yarra Valley is a well-respected Australian wine region that occupies the eastern half of the Port Phillip viticultural zone in the diminutive state of Victoria. At complete odds with the usual, hot and dry Shiraz-growing image of Australia, Yarra Valley is best known for its bright, complex wines made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
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 minerally, with delicate flavours. By law, if a label says “Chablis,” it must be Chardonnay.