Red Wine

Red wine is a type of wine made from red grapes, which are dark purple to black in colour when they are unripe. It is produced by the complete or partial fermentation of crushed grapes, generally leading to an alcoholic content of 15%–20%. It can range from slightly dry to very sweet, and is typically paired with dishes that have strong flavours such as game, red meat, and strong cheeses.

Red wine has a long and rich history. The earliest known evidence of wine production comes from Georgia, where wild grape vines were found growing around 9,500 BC. Ancient Egyptians are thought to have been the first to cultivate red grapes, and it is believed that they used them in religious ceremonies. 

Romans were also early adopters of red wine, and they made it a part of their everyday lives. During the Middle Ages, red wine became very popular in Europe because it was seen as a luxurious drink. In fact, during the Crusades, red wine was even considered sacred because it was believed that it could protect soldiers from harm. 

During the 19th century, red wine began to gain popularity in America. In 1825, John Jacob Astor opened the first American winery, and by 1875, there were more than 1,000 wineries in the United States. Today, Americans consume more red wine than any other type of alcohol. 

One of the most famous red wines is Chianti Classico. Originally from Florence, Italy, Chianti is now produced all over the world and is one of the most popular brands of red wine.

Types of red wines

There are many types of red wines, but each has its own unique characteristics. Here are three of the most common types: 

  • Zinfandel: This wine is made from a blend of different types of grapes, including Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is usually light in colour with a fruity taste and sharp acidity. Zinfandel is often served cold with food or used in mixed drinks. 
  • Sauvignon Blanc: Sauvignon Blanc is a versatile wine that can be served cold or room temperature. It's typically made from a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and other white grapes, such as Chardonnay or Muscadelle. The wine has a delicate flavour and low acidity, making it ideal for pairing with seafood or poultry dishes. 
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular types of red wines. It's typically made from a blend of cabernet sauvignon and other red grapes, such as Merlot.

The different types of grapes used for wine production

When it comes to wine, there are many different types of grapes used. Red wine is made primarily from the Cabernet Sauvignon grape, while white wine is typically made from the Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Reds are generally more complex tasting than whites, and vary greatly in their flavour profiles based on where they're from. 

Why we drink red wine

Red wine is often associated with celebrations and special occasions. But what is the story behind this beloved drink? Red wine has a long and complex history, one that goes back to ancient times. Here are five reasons why we love red wine: 

  1. Red wine is full of antioxidants: A study from the University of California at Davis found that Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir wines had the highest levels of antioxidants. These antioxidants can help protect against heart disease, cancer, and other age-related conditions.
  2. Red wine is a source of natural energy. In addition to being packed with antioxidants, red wine also contains glucose (sugar) and energy-boosting compounds like caffeine. This makes red wine a perfect choice for energy drinks or after dinner drinks.
  3. Red wine contains healthful nutrients like fibre and vitamins A and C. Many red wines are also high in polyphenols (antioxidants), which provide health benefits such as lowering cholesterol levels and protecting against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
  4. Red wine can improve your moods. Several studies have found that people who drink red wine are more relaxed.

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Taylors Hotelier Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Taylors Hotelier Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Lock & Key Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Lock & Key Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.9% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Yalumba Wyndy's Last Stand Barossa Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Yalumba Wyndy's Last Stand Barossa Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Stoneleigh Marlborough Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Stoneleigh Marlborough Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Lindeman's Gentleman's Collection Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Lindeman's Gentleman's Collection Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Peter Lehmann Portrait Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Peter Lehmann Portrait Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Tropo 2021 Little Red (750mL) -22%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Red and blue fruit, rustic tannin, vegetal Varietal Pinot Gris Syrah Merlot Chardonnay Style Fields of joy Our Notes A novel red-white field blend, best consumed chilled. Berry notes typical of a red, bit of coarse tannin, but white-wine suppleness and some herbal notes from both. Eminently quaffable in the signature Tropo way. From The Winemaker Plenty of racy red berries and blue fruit, with an elevated acidity for the flexibility of chilling, with just a hint of chewy, green tannin. So fresh it feels like fermentation finished yesterday. A perfect gateway into...
St Hallett Black Clay Shiraz (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Find a fresh and lifted nose of dark berries partnered with a playful hint of supple spiciness. Blackcurrant and mulberry fruit burst onto the palate, showing a bright and lush vibrancy. The lively fruit flavours are complimented by the refined and elegant tannins which gives a balanced, savoury finish Ripening was very steadily paced throughout which made for an accommodating vintage and the ability to pick everything exactly when St Hallett wanted it. 
Brokenwood Cricket Pitch Red (750mL) -14%
Brokenwood Cricket Pitch Red (750mL)
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Dark fruit, ripe tannin, some oak sweetness Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Merlot Style Bright & balanced From The Winemaker Superb aromas with lifted Cabernet fruit and background vanillin oak. The Shiraz component adds dark fruit, midpalate weight and sweetness along with the ripe tannins, which give great length and persistence to the finish. Cabernet is not ‘dense’ in terms of colour but this wine has a lovely purple hue, simply one of the best Cricket Pitch reds and a lovely drinking wine as always.  
Rosemount Little Berry Shiraz (750mL) -10%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Juicy blackberry and rich Type Red Wine Style Shiraz From the Winemaker Experience a harmonious blend of vibrant, fresh berry aromas complemented by subtle notes of chocolate and mocha on the palate. This wine boasts round, soft, and smooth tannins, making it a versatile and delightful choice for all occasions. ABV (%): 14.5 Size:  750ML Country:  Australia
Notion 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) -22%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Juicy blackberry, herbaceous, structured tannin Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich, complex and full-bodied Our Notes This is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon that goes perfectly with your favourite pizza or a rich tomato-based pasta. The wine is ready for drinking now and with a few years under its belt be sure to give it a little time to open up after decanting. From The Winemaker The 2017 vintage produced grapes of optimum ripeness, resulting in a rich, complex, and full-bodied wine. Dark crimson in colour and a long palate displaying intense...
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Weight: 1.200 kg
Explore the bold and complex Kingston Estate Shiraz, a true gem from the Clare Valley. Crafted from grapes nurtured in near-perfect conditions, this Shiraz is a symphony of rich flavors and aromas, designed to enchant the palate of any wine enthusiast. Discover Kingston Estate Shiraz from Clare Valley – a blend of plum, pepper spice, and black olives with a palate of cassis, dark chocolate, and smooth tannins. Perfect with slow-cooked pork shoulder. Key Features Region: Clare Valley Vintage Conditions: A wet spring followed by mild, dry conditions allowed for a long, slow ripening period, enhancing the complexity of...
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Weight: 1.200 kg
Savor the opulence of Kingston Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from the Limestone Coast, where luxury meets accessibility. This single-varietal wine captivates with its intense flavors and true varietal character, making it a perfect choice for any evening. Experience the 2021 Kingston Estate Cabernet Sauvignon – a lush journey of dark fruits, cassis, and sweet vanillin oak, paired perfectly with a butterflied leg of lamb. Key Features Region: Limestone Coast Vintage: 2021 Drinkability: Ready for immediate enjoyment with potential to age gracefully over the next 5 years. Hop Vine & Still Tasting Panel Score: 89/100...
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Weight: 1.500 kg
The wine is bright red in colour, showing signs of youth and freshness. The nose is bursting with raspberries and violets, with hints of cedar. The palate is generous with silky tannins that linger in the mouth. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 10 years. The fruit for this wine was derived from cuttings of our grandfather’s original family vineyard in Tuscany. This is an indigenous variety specific to the Stefani family. Fruit is entirely grown and hand-picked on the family estate vineyard in the Yarra Valley, Victoria. The wine has been aged for twelve months in both new and seasoned large format barrels. Sangiovese and tomato is a...
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
The wine is bright red in colour, showing signs of youth and freshness. The nose is bursting with raspberries and violets, with hints of cedar. The palate is generous with silky tannins that linger in the mouth. Enjoy now or cellar for up to 10 years. The fruit for this wine was derived from cuttings of our grandfather’s original family vineyard in Tuscany. This is an indigenous variety specific to the Stefani family. Fruit is entirely grown and hand-picked on the family estate vineyard in the Yarra Valley, Victoria. The wine has been aged for twelve months in both new and seasoned large format barrels. Sangiovese and tomato is a...
Chain Of Ponds Novello Cabernet Merlot 750ML -10%
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Chain Of Ponds Novello Cabernet Merlot 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Taylors Estate Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Taylors Estate Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle A soft and fleshy shiraz boasting a lively palate of juicy red berry fruits, plum and spice, along with subtle chocolate and savoury characters from the oak maturation.
Oyster Bay Merlot 750ML -10%
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Oyster Bay Merlot 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Aged in French oak barriques to impart complexity, the heroes in our Oyster Bay Merlot are always freshness of ripe fruit, spice and soft tannins on the palate. A wonderful Merlot perfectly crafted to accompany any special moment.
St Hallett Black Clay Shiraz 750ML -10%
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St Hallett Black Clay Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Barossa Valley Shiraz yields were slightly below average, and all the wines show superb colour and richness with abundant aromas and flavours.
Taylors Estate Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Taylors Estate Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Layered flavours of red cherry, spice and plum are superbly balanced with French oak, giving length to the finish.
Wynns Coon Siding Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Wynns Coon Siding Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.4% Quantity : 1 Bottle Engaging ripe cherries and brambles are elevated by savoury lavender and spice.
Taylors Estate Merlot 750ML -10%
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Taylors Estate Merlot 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Ripe berry, rich fruitcake flavours and soft, velvety tannins. French and American oak impart dark chocolate, coffee bean and vanilla characters.
Houghton Crofters Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Houghton Crofters Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Western Australia’s best kept secret, Frankland River, delivers another delicious Shiraz that showcases the distinctive red fruit and spice characters.
Madfish Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Madfish Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Typical of the grape and its regional characteristics, the MadFish Pinot Noir features an aromatic perfume, silky tannins and enticing fruit flavours. The translation of Pinot Noir from French to English is pine and black. Pine refers to the pine cone shape of the grape bunch, and black to its colour. Whilst not really black, the descriptor gives some relativity to its cousins, Pinot Gris (grey/pink) and Pinot Blanc (white/yellow).
Campo Viejo Tempranillo 750ML -10%
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Campo Viejo Tempranillo 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Taylors Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Taylors Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Rich expressive flavours of cassis, mulberry and a hint of eucalypt. French oak maturation adds touches of dark chocolate, cedar and spice.
Wynns Coon Cabernet Shiraz Merlot 750ML -10%
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Wynns Coon Cabernet Shiraz Merlot 750ML ABV :13.6% Quantity : 1 Bottle The “red-stripe” blend of three red varieties creates a versatile wine suited to many occasions. Soft fruit and judicious oak create a wine that is perfect for current drinking or medium-term cellaring. The Wynns Cabernet Shiraz Merlot is a well-balanced and approachable wine, providing a true reflection of its regionality.
Casa Lluch Tempranillo 750ML -10%
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Casa Lluch Tempranillo 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Jacobs Creek Barossa Signature Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Jacobs Creek Barossa Signature Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle A premium Shiraz which captures the true essence of the Barossa with its bold flavours, ripe tannins and satisfying long finish.
Scotchmans Hill Swan Bay Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Scotchmans Hill Swan Bay Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle A vibrant Shiraz perfumed with red plums and blueberries, spice, white pepper and savoury oak.
St Huberts Stag Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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St Huberts Stag Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle his Pinot Noir has earthy aromas of forest floor and roast beetroot, over a core of cherry Pinot fruit. Hints of red fruits are evident, as are graphite and green olives. These are all nicely framed by spicy French oak.
Madfish Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Madfish Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle The MadFish Shiraz shows the south-western version of the grape in classic, juicy style – fruit-forward, plush, and downright delicious! An opulent, full-bodied wine that will drink well now and will develop complex aging characters of rich earth, leather and forest floor over the next 5 years.
Les Courtilles Cotes Du Rhone 750ML -10%
Les Courtilles Cotes Du Rhone 750ML
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Les Courtilles Cotes Du Rhone 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Annies Lane Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Annies Lane Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Scotchmans Hill Swan Bay Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Scotchmans Hill Swan Bay Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :14.3% Quantity : 1 Bottle Displaying red fruits, violets and spice, this Pinot Noir is fresh and juicy with an elegant oak background.
Chalk Hill Luna Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Chalk Hill Luna Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Vasse Felix Classic Dry Red  750ML -10%
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Vasse Felix Classic Dry Red 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle A classic bright, lightly perfumed and succulent Margaret River Shiraz, characterised by its medium weight and delicious structure. This wine is an easy drinking, delectable style with light red fruit and a fine tannin profile.
Annies Lane Cabernet Merlot 750ML -10%
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Annies Lane Cabernet Merlot 750ML ABV :13.9% Quantity : 1 Bottle
St Huberts Stag Shiraz 750ML -10%
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St Huberts Stag Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle This medium-bodied Shiraz has spicy, peppery notes with dark cherries, blood plums and fresh raspberries on the nose, together with Morello cherries and red fruits on the palate, velvety fine tannins and a lingering cherry, chocolate, toasty finish.
Wynns Coon Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Wynns Coon Shiraz 750ML ABV :12% Quantity : 1 Bottle Typically the Wynns Coonawarra Estate Shiraz has aromas of ground black pepper, berry and distinctive floral notes. Delicate oak is used to match and support the fine palate structure, without dominating its distinctive, cool-climate character. A mediumbodied wine with a lingering finish that will age gracefully in the tradition of the original Wynns Hermitage wine.
Ta Ku Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Ta Ku Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Smell: Dark berries, toasty oak and mocha Taste: Classic cherry, supple mouthfeel Try with: Lamb or duck
Altozano Tempranillo 750ML -10%
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Altozano Tempranillo 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Oyster Bay Marlborough Pinot Noir (750mL) -21%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Ripe cherry, juicy, soft tannin Varietal Pinot Noir Style Silky & seductive From The Winemaker Our first vintage of Pinot Noir was coined ‘the elusive stuff of dreams’ by UK wine writer Giles Kime. A youthful expressiveness, with seductive silky complexity and dark fruit flavours from our vineyards across the Marlborough region. With Pinot Noir the fruit is always the primary focus. Marlborough’s warm days and cool nights make it an ideal climate for growing the famously temperamental grape. Matured in French oak barrels the result is fragrant, soft, and...
19 Crimes Snoop Dogg Cali Red (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Black & Blue Fruits, Candied Fruits Varietal Red Blend Style Full Bodied Our Notes Perfect conversation-starting red. Well balanced full bodied red blend that is great for a social event or dinner party. Easy to drink and a perfect pairing for medium to heavy dishes. A crowd pleaser 'fo shizzle'. From the Winemaker Full and dense red wine, with strong black & blue fruit notes upfront from the Petite Syrah, complemented by bright red, slightly candied fruit in the background from the Zinfandel. The darkly toasted oak ties it all together along with a...
T'Gallant Cape Schanck Pinot Noir (750mL) -24%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Perfumed, red berries & forest floor, silky tannin Varietal Pinot Noir Style Light but luscious From The Winemaker T’Gallant Cape Schanck Pinot Noir is sourced from fruit from cool climate Victorian vineyards. A hedonistic Pinot Noir at its most opulent. The Cape Schanck Pinot Noir is a beautiful multi-regional blend, with all components contributing to the beguiling nature and fantastic structure of this wine. Pair with classic pinot noir food matches such as duck, but don’t be afraid to pair with roast lamb. About the Winery T’Gallant is...
Stoneleigh Latitude Pinot Noir (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackberry, cherry, oak and subtle spice Varietal Pinot Noir Style Rich firm tannins and a complex aroma Winemakers Comments This wine is a deep magenta colour with hints of purple. Complex aromas of plum compote, baking spices, vanilla and toasty oak continue to evolve in the glass. The palate is rich and concentrated with firm tannins, and the highlighted sweet fruit flavours are balanced by good acid structure. Notes of blackberry and black cherry are followed by charry oak and subtle spice. The finish is persistent and generous, with hints of dark...
Seppelt One Mile Drive Shiraz (750mL) -24%
Seppelt One Mile Drive Shiraz (750mL)
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, raspberry, cocoa, fine tannin Varietal Shiraz Style Rich & dark From The Winemaker Seppelt One Mile Drive Heathcote Shiraz is rich and layered with dark chocolate, blackcurrants and spice. Founded in 1851, Seppelt is one of Australia’s most historic and important wine producers. They have a rich heritage in sparkling wine and are the pioneers of the uniquely Australian Sparkling Shiraz. Seppelt craft beautiful wines that express the unique personalities of their vineyards across premium cool-climate Grampians country, the wild Henty...
Ta_ku Pinot Noir (750mL) -5%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Fruit-forward, dark berry juice, some judicious spice Type Pinot Noir Style Juicy & bright From the Winemaker The Ta Ku Pinot Gris presents delightful red cherry and plum fruit flavours. Juicy and bright. Fruity and charming. A fruit-forward Marlborough Pinot Noir that has a bouquet of dark berry fruits, subtle toasty oak and mocha notes. The palate is a classic cherry with supple tannins. This wine boasts both presence and persistence, leaving a lasting impression with each sip. It pairs exceptionally well with a variety of dishes, including salmon, pork, or...
Taylors Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) -14%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Cassis, mulberry & a hint of eucalypt Type Cabernet Sauvignon Style Rich & flavourful From the Winemaker This is a wine of great intensity. It has distinctive blackcurrant and cassis fruit flavours. Subtle oak characters of cedar cigar box and spice are also evident. The tannins are fine and elegant – a hallmark of the varietal. The palate is well-balanced, complex and fulfilling and lingers on the finish.
Taylors Estate Merlot (750mL) -14%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Ripe berry, rich fruitcake, tannins, oak, chocolate, coffee bean & vanilla Type Merlot Style Rich & smooth From the Winemaker At release, this wine is medium to full-bodied with lush red berry, plum and cherry fruit characters. The fruit flavours are balanced by undertones of creamy mocha, spice & subtle savoury characters. The palate has a soft, velvety texture with grainy tannins through the mid-palate and a long, persistent finish.