Peter Lehmann Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
A Cabernet Sauvignon – and a modern-classic Barossa wine. A nose that is packed with super ripe fruit, with blackberry and redcurrant in the lead, then chocolate, smoked chorizo, Christmas cake and pencil shavings. Dry, with lovely, svelte tannins and more of that bright, plush fruit bleeding through the palate. Firmly concentrated and persistent, with a sleek texture and an abundance and intensity to the long finish. 93pts

Camino de Seda 2022
From bush vines of Monastrell in vineyards at altitude above the desert-like plains of the Jumilla region in Spain. The name translates as ‘silk road’ – the region is on the old trading route, and is home to a multitude of mulberry trees (a silk moth’s favourite dwelling). A brooding dark red-black in the glass. Cherry and plum flavours mingle with lots of peppery spice on the nose and into the palate. A velvet-like smooth texture with vanilla and dark chocolate gives an impression of sweetness – and it is rich and plush…but works well when matched with roasted or BBQ meats.

Tenuta Fenice Nero d’Avola 2022
Sicilian wine has been very on-trend in the last couple of years, with the world discovering the red wines from the island’s native varieties. Damson, liquorice and bramble lead the aromas. Don’t let the dark colour in the glass deceive you – this is quite light on its feet through the palate. The tannin is fine and chalky, and the oak just frames the bright fruit. Has that southern italian spice element to it, without overpowering the delicate fruit flavours. Smooth and intricate on the finish. 92pts

Il Papavero Primitivo 2022
The essential grape of Puglia – if you could choose one varietal to showcase southern Italy, this would probably be it! Black pepper, salami, and tapenade elements jostle the ripe, deep black fruits for your attention. A swell of cassis, blackberry and plum fall into line – juicy and intense. Enriched with a seam of zesty acidity, the palate is plump and glossy, with the interplay between the fruit and the spice taking centre stage. Tannin is discrete and supporting. A definitive expression of the varietal and place. 92pts

Di Cavallo Sangiovese Rubicone 2021
Sangiovese is the classic grape for Chianti in Tuscany. They also grow it in the neighbouring Emilia Romagna region – where this originates. Both regions are gastronomic powerhouses, demanding wines of character and elegance. Perfumed with blackcurrant, cherry, raspberry and a little medicinal nip of eucalypt and green herbs. A really energy and freshness through the palate. There is ample spice, but overall this is just fresh, fruity and dynamic. 90pts