Dollar for dollar, wines such as this truly are remarkable value. Soft, round with flavours of ripe plums, blackcurrant and a finely grained mouthfeel.

Simply a wine of true perfection. 2009 in Bordeaux has bestowed many a Châteaux with a wine for the ages and in iconic estates like Château Haut-Brion, the wines have been lifted to 'nirvana-ish' levels. One wouldn't be adverse to simply sitting on the nose of this wine for hours without having a want to taste it such is the complexity and aromatic waves that are present. In the mouth though, this Pessac-Léognan boasts flavours of cigar, raspberries, plums, figs and blueberries with a finish that seems to go on for decades. Breathtakingly stunning.

Bimbadgen Ridge Shiraz Cabernet Merlot is a medium bodied wine that combines the firm fruity characters of Shiraz with the length and finish of Cabernet and soft fleshy Merlot.

The Arrogant Frog Ribet Red Cabernet Merlot from the South-West of France is a juicy, easy drinking style with soft tannins on the finish. Jean-Claude Mas has crafted the perfect red to enjoy with grilled lamb chops from the BBQ or many pasta dishes.

Wolf Blass brings us a fruit driven style Shiraz Merlot Cabernet blend with a bouquet of lifted spice, plum, and subtle oak. The palate is medium bodied, showing soft fruit flavours with rich berry characters.

Woodlands were one of the 'first wave' of wineries to set up in the Margaret River in the early 1970s and today that heritage is in the capable hands of Andrew and Stuart Watson, sons of the pioneering David. The Margaret Cabernet Merlot displays aromas of rosemary, leather and spice winding through blackberry and blackcurrant fruit. The palate is a reflection of the nose, and is bolstered by eucalypt, bay leaf and cranberry flavours.

Temple Bruer continues to be one of the standout Organic producers in Australia with flavoursome and richly textured wines. This Cabernet Merlot has the great bonus of being Preservative Free for those with sensitivies to Sulpher Dioxide.

Deep purple in colour, this Merlot has an attractive nose of ripe red berries and cassis. The palate is soft and generous with plenty of sweet, juicy flavours. Great drinking and a great price!

The high altitude Orange region is producing some outstanding Merlot and this release, made by Debbie Lauritz, is a great example. Aromas of dried herb and currant are supported with sweet fruit flavours.

Two words come to mind when you mention great Australian Merlot. Jim Irivne. Jim's Grand Merlot is the benchmark of complex and elegant Merlot in Australia and his Eden Valley vineyards are the perfect place to produce this iconic wine.