Chateau Batailley is a highly regarded 5th growth classified estate, located in the appellation of Pauillac on the left bank of Bordeaux. Owned by the Castéja family of négociants Borie-Manoux, it is one of the oldest estates in the Médoc. A Cabernet Sauvignon dominant blend with smaller components of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it is a solid, classically structured mid-weight Pauillac displaying fresh notes of cassis and a backbone of fine-grained tannins.

Having been through many iterations since its establishment in the early 17th century, what we know today as Chateau Brane Cantenac has well and truly settled into itself and become something extraordinary. Taking its name from the man knows as the Napoleon of the Vineyards, the Baron of Brane, who purchased it in 1833, the chateau has passed through several hands, finally coming to rest in the hands of Lucien Lurton in 1956. Under the Lurton family large portions of the vineyard were replanted, vine densities increased, drainage systems improved and the plantings evolved into their current varietals. The 2016 release has garnered a huge response from critics, with James Suckling naming it one of the best ever from the chateau, and Jancis Robinson praising its Cool, unforced and sophisticated delivery as Very competent indeed.

The Iron Duke is a premium Langhorne Creek Cabernet from Bleasdale the regions oldest winery, founded in 1850. The wine, made in limited quantites, is a blend of the best parcels of Cabernet fruit from the vintage. Rich, medium bodied and showing sublime regional and varietal typicity, The Iron Duke is racked before bottle without filtration. Named not after Arthur Wellesley, the Duke of Wellington, but after founder Frank Potts own rifle. The wine honours Franks readiness is organising Langhorne Creek locals to defend against a potential Imperial Russian Invasion a real fear at the time.

MCHENRY HOHNEN Rolling Stone Cabernet Malbec Petit Verdot, Margaret River