Château Brane-Cantenac sits in a prime position on the plateau of Cantenac and makes full use of its excellent terroir. No doubt something that Baron de Brane was aware of and along with his viticultural talents were the reasons behind the estates rise to fame. Now tended by the Lurton family, the wines continue to be in great hands. Of the 2009 vintage, Henri Lurton is known to have said that the winery was enveloped in aromas of raspberry and blackberry even before fermentation began! Even though fruit ripeness is an obvious trait, the balance and structure of the wine are also clearly evident which will see the wine age for a decade or two more.

Houghton Gladstones Cabernet Sauvignon is a wonderful example of well established wineries in the Western Australian wine scene with access to some amazing vineyards sites within the Margaret River. On show here are marvelous aromas and flavours of bay leaf, black tea and some spicy mocha notes. Excitingly dense on palate with harmonious oak balance and impressive acidity. A brilliant wine.

Wynns John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon is the icon Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon. Named after Coonawarra pioneer, pastoralist and parliamentarian, John Riddoch, this Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the very best of Wynns vast planting in Coonawarra and it only made in the years that best express Wynns strive for excellence. Arguably richer and more complex from comparable styles in the region, John Riddoch Cabernet is highly sought after and extremely limited.

While the estate known as Chateau Haut-Bailly dates back to 1461, its wine production began in 1530, falling into the hands of the de Leuvarde and Le Bailly families in 1630. It was purchased in 1998 by Robert G Wilmers, a Harvard-educated banker, and his French wife Elisabeth and under their care, the estate has begun producing some of the best wines in its history. The cellars and production procedures were renovated and modernised and this year, the Chateau itself was awarded government recognition of its cultural and vinious heritage.

The 2017 Chateau Boyd Cantenac from Margaux, Bordeaux, France is a true testament to the rich and complex terroir of the region. This vintage is a blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, with smaller amounts of Merlot and Petit Verdot, resulting in a deep ruby red color with hints of purple. On the nose, one is greeted by intense aromas of ripe blackberries, cassis, and dark cherry, intertwined with notes of cedar, tobacco, and a touch of vanilla from the oak aging. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied with a velvety texture, showcasing flavors of blackcurrant, plum, and a touch of spice. The tannins are well-structured and balanced, leading to a long and satisfying finish. This 2017 vintage from Chateau Boyd Cantenac is a must-try for any Bordeaux lover and will continue to evolve beautifully with age.