VASSE FELIX Tom Cullity (Gift Boxed) Cabernet Malbec, Margaret River

Chris Ringland Limit Lodge Cabernet Mataro is a blend of exceptional fruit from exceptional vineyards, a new style from winemaker Chris Ringland and grape grower Adrian Hoffmann. The name Limit Lodge comes from a historical parcel within the Hoffmann vineyards, and is also appropriate given the limited number of bottles made. Matured in aged French oak, this is a juicy Cabernet blend rich in dark, plummy fruits with savoury notes of bittersweet chocolate, coffee, and anise. The finish is long with mouth-coating tannins, and a slight salinity. Plenty of potential for ageing.

Wolf Blass Platinum Label Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from the Medlands Vineyard, situated on the central north Barossa Valley floor at Dorrien. This site features ancient soils of loamy sands over clay, deposited five million years ago, which produce fruit with significant varietal intensity. The microclimate here is influenced by cooling breezes from the foothills and the North Para River, allowing for the slow ripening of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. In the winery, Steven Frost and his team focus on preserving the vineyard's character through a combination of traditional and modern techniques. The wine typically undergoes maturation in new French oak for approximately 22 months, a process that integrates firm tannins with the natural dark fruit profile. This extended barrel aging adds structural complexity and helps the wine develop the longevity expected of a flagship Barossa red.

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.

Bright plum in colour, Penfolds Bin 169 Cabernet Sauvignon displays delicate notes of mint and blackcurrant, with a more savory bouquet of semi-dried tomatoes and fruit chutney at the end. A hint of oak and spice adds extra warmth. On the palate a flavour-wheel of spearmint, milo powder, chocolate and black liquorice.

Houghton CW Ferguson Cabernet Malbec is a tribute to Charles William Ferguson. A pioneer of the Swan Valley region, Charles Ferguson was committed to developing the area along with the reputation of Houghton's. This Cabernet Malbec is the first release and is accumulating a list of gold medals the envy of most, including the Regional Trophy for best Australian red blend over £10 at the Decanter World Wine Awards 2011.