When it comes to Australian Merlot, Katnook is among the very best. Lovely plum dark berry and cedary cigar box characters slip seamlessly into a finish that seems everlasting. Aged for 22 months in French oak, the swathes of blackcurrant are a delight to the senses.

Usually Mountadama's 'The Red' is a Cab Merlot blend, but in 2018 the switch was made from Merlot to Shiraz as the secondary varietal component. "At this level of ripeness and generosity, the switch from merlot to shiraz is surprising, bolstering mid-palate density. The integrity of this cool site triumphs in the end, with crunchy blackcurrant fruit, fine-grained tannins and gentle acidity holding impressive line and length.” Tyson Stelzer, The Halliday Wine Companion. Sam Kim is a fan too, calling it "Wonderfully ripe and enticing..." 94pts.

One of Australia's true great wine treasures, Henschke produce a range of wines that are the envy of most. Keyneton Estate is often the first premium wine from this most famous of producers that people try. As such, the attention to detail and meticulous craftsmanship of this wine is a testament to the vision and passion of Stephen and Prue Henschke.

Second label of 5th growth producer Château Lynch Moussas this classic blend of Cabernet and Merlot has a distinctive cherry and blackberry palate enhanced by vanilla and cedar notes.

Chateau Ducluzeau is owned by Bruno Borie, owner of the iconic Second Growth Ducru Beaucaillou in St Julien. The 10ha vineyard in Listrac being planted to 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon (the highest percentage of Merlot in the entire appellation). Classic Bordeaux through and through - with beautiful notes of liquorice, rose, plum and blackberry.

Te Kahu is a wine of richness, with lovely black fruit flavours, hints of spice and long, fine graceful finish. From gravelly soil, it is made very much in the image of good Bordeaux.