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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McGuigan Black Label Shiraz 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12% abv A smooth and vibrant Shiraz exhibiting rich aromas of red berries, chocolate, savoury leather and spicy oak notes. The full rounded palate displays generous red berry fruit flavours, soft tannins and a long lasting finish
McGuigan Black Label Sparkling Shiraz (750mL) -17%
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Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, plum, cocoa, fine bead Type Sparkling Shiraz Style Sweet & refreshing From the Winemaker Sparkling Shiraz is a very versatile wine which can be served chilled as a starter or used to match with a wide range of foods for any celebration. Delightful dark berry fruit flavours of blackcurrant and plum highlight this sparkling wine. A touch of spicy oak and chocolate adds extra depth while fine beads deliver a refreshing finish and give the wine excellent length. Shiraz wine from various specially selected vintages was combined to form the ideal base for...
McGuigan Black Label Sparkling Shiraz (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, plum, cocoa, fine bead Type Sparkling Shiraz Style Sweet & refreshing From the Winemaker Sparkling Shiraz is a very versatile wine which can be served chilled as a starter or used to match with a wide range of foods for any celebration. Delightful dark berry fruit flavours of blackcurrant and plum highlight this sparkling wine. A touch of spicy oak and chocolate adds extra depth while fine beads deliver a refreshing finish and give the wine excellent length. Shiraz wine from various specially selected vintages was combined to form the ideal base for...
McGuigan Black Label Tempranillo (750mL) -17%
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Aroma & Palate Fruit-forward, raspberry, umami Type Tempranillo Style Refreshing & vibrant From the Winemaker The five o'clock wine…Rich, generous and accessible, the Black Label range is your everyday guide to Australia's favourite wine varieties. Bright and vibrant, lifted cherry and plum aromas combine with rich raspberry and black cherry flavours. The palate is well-balanced with upfront berry fruits and tight tannins leading to a savoury finish. An easy drinking style, this wine is perfectly matched with food, including a hearty paella or lamb shanks. ABV (%): 12.0...
McGuigan Black Label Tempranillo (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
In stock
Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Fruit-forward, raspberry, umami Varietal Tempranillo Style Refreshing & vibrant From the Winemaker The five o'clock wine…Rich, generous and accessible, the Black Label range is your everyday guide to Australia's favourite wine varieties. Bright and vibrant, lifted cherry and plum aromas combine with rich raspberry and black cherry flavours. The palate is well-balanced with upfront berry fruits and tight tannins leading to a savoury finish. An easy-drinking style, this wine is perfectly matched with food, including a hearty paella or lamb shanks....
McGuigan Black Label Tempranillo 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 12% abv Bright and vibrant, lifted cherry and plum aromas combine with rich raspberry and black cherry flavours. The palate is well-balanced with upfront berry fruits and tight tannins leading to a savoury finish. An easy drinking style, this wine is perfectly matched with food, including a hearty paella or lamb shanks.
McGuigan Single Batch Project Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) -13%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, crushed mint, leather Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Dark & delicious From The Winemaker The majority of the fruit for this wine was sourced from premium vineyards within South Australia. The continental climate ensured a hot growing season resulting in long sunny days and noticeably cooler nights. The combination of these conditions allowed this vintage to develop into one of the region’s greatest vintages of the past decade, delivering wines of intense fruit depth and beautiful natural acidity.
McGuigan Single Batch Project Cabernet Sauvignon (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Blackcurrant, crushed mint, leather Varietal Cabernet Sauvignon Style Dark & delicious From The Winemaker The majority of the fruit for this wine was sourced from premium vineyards within South Australia. The continental climate ensured a hot growing season resulting in long sunny days and noticeably cooler nights. The combination of these conditions allowed this vintage to develop into one of the region’s greatest vintages of the past decade, delivering wines of intense fruit depth and beautiful natural acidity.
$8295 $10080
McGuigan Single Batch Project Malbec (750mL) -13%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Berry fruit, cinnamon & white pepper Varietal Malbec Style Long & luscious From The Winemaker This Malbec shows aromas of red cherries, plum and blueberries with hints of spice and white pepper. This is a fruit driven wine with the palate giving generous red and dark fruit flavours with soft tannins. Hints of cedar and spice are present on the finish, with the wine providing good length.
McGuigan Single Batch Project Malbec (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
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Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Berry fruit, cinnamon & white pepper Varietal Malbec Style Long & luscious From The Winemaker This Malbec shows aromas of red cherries, plum and blueberries with hints of spice and white pepper. This is a fruit driven wine with the palate giving generous red and dark fruit flavours with soft tannins. Hints of cedar and spice are present on the finish, with the wine providing good length.
$8295 $10080
McGuigan Single Batch Project Pinot Noir (750mL) -13%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Aromatic, red fruit, juicy acidity Varietal Pinot Noir Style Rich & refreshing From The Winemaker Our most recent range of contemporary wines sourced from South Australian vineyards. The perfect accompaniment to any meal, these wines are handcrafted, made in single batches, ensuring that the last bottle opened always tastes as good as the first. Every vintage, each wine parcel is allocated a batch code, separated from other batches and treated independently to ensure cleanliness and purity of winemaking. With Mother Nature ensuring each year offers new possibilities...
McGuigan Single Batch Project Pinot Noir (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
In stock
Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Aromatic, red fruit, juicy acidity Varietal Pinot Noir Style Rich & refreshing From The Winemaker Our most recent range of contemporary wines sourced from South Australian vineyards. The perfect accompaniment to any meal, these wines are handcrafted, made in single batches, ensuring that the last bottle opened always tastes as good as the first. Every vintage, each wine parcel is allocated a batch code, separated from other batches and treated independently to ensure cleanliness and purity of winemaking. With Mother Nature ensuring each year offers new possibilities...
$8295 $10080
McGuigan Single Batch Project Shiraz (750mL) -13%
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Aroma & Palate Fruit-driven, spicy with vanilla oak Varietal Shiraz Style Big & bold From The Winemaker Our most recent range of contemporary wines sourced from South Australian vineyards. The perfect accompaniment to any meal, these wines are handcrafted, made in single batches, ensuring that the last bottle opened always tastes as good as the first. Every vintage, each wine parcel is allocated a batch code, separated from other batches and treated independently to ensure cleanliness and purity of winemaking. With Mother Nature ensuring each year offers new possibilities and hope of...
McGuigan Single Batch Project Shiraz (750mL) Case of 6 -18%
In stock
Weight: 9.000 kg
Aroma & Palate Fruit-driven, spicy with vanilla oak Varietal Shiraz Style Big & bold From The Winemaker Our most recent range of contemporary wines sourced from South Australian vineyards. The perfect accompaniment to any meal, these wines are handcrafted, made in single batches, ensuring that the last bottle opened always tastes as good as the first. Every vintage, each wine parcel is allocated a batch code, separated from other batches and treated independently to ensure cleanliness and purity of winemaking. With Mother Nature ensuring each year offers new possibilities and hope of...
$8295 $10080
McGuigan Winemaker's Choice Shiraz 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 14.5% abv The Winemaker’s Choice Shiraz displays delightful aromas of blood plums and blackberries with a lovely note of sweet spice from the oak. The palate is full bodied and rich with flavours of black fruits supported by vanilla spice and a hint of cracked black pepper. The wine has a beautiful acid balance, all of these work together harmoniously with the firm yet fine tannins that create a long silky finish.
McPherson Bella's Pinot Grigio 2021 750ml
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McPherson Bella's Pinot Grigio  Size: 750ml Vintage: 2021 Varietal: Pinot Grigio APV: 11.5% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: Victoria From the Winery:   TASTING NOTES Colour Pale, straw colour with some golden hues. Nose Hints of honeysuckle and apple. Palate Fresh, fruit driven wine with slightly savoury flavours and notes of pear and citrus. Best consumed Now - 2026 Food Recommendations Our clean and fresh Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with anything from the sea as well as modern Australian dishes. Think Asian salads, fish tacos, textural light pasta and vegetarian Pad...
Mcpherson Cabernet Merlot 750ML -10%
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Mcpherson Cabernet Merlot 750ML ABV :12% Quantity : 1 Bottle A classic partner for grilled rib eye served with a pepper sauce. McPherson Cabernet Merlot also pairs well with rich tomato based pasta dishes
McWilliam's Cream Apera 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 18% abv Rich Muscat- raisin style; fresh, soft and rounded with a creamy luscious mid-palate and a sweet lingering finish.Fresh aromatic floral Muscat bouquet.Best consumed within one year of opening.
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Weight: 1.300 kg
Meadowbank Gamay Size: 750ml Vintage: 2022 Varietal: Gamay APV: 12% Clousure: Screw Cap Region: Upper Derwent Valley, Tas From the Winery:   One of the less common red grape varieties, Gamay is gaining popularity amongst the trend-setters and is one of our most highly anticipated wine releases each year.  At Meadowbank we have some old Gamay vines (planted in 1987) and some new Gamay vines (planted in 2015). What excites us most about this wine is how each of these vineyard areas produce grapes with such unique flavour profiles which, when blended together, produce a seriously delicious and well balanced drink....
Medhurst Yarra Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML -10%
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Medhurst Yarra Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 750ML ABV :13.2% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Medhurst Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
Medhurst Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 750ML
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Medhurst Yarra Valley Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Medhurst Yarra Valley Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Medhurst Yarra Valley Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Merricks Estate  Thompson's Lane Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Merricks Estate Thompson's Lane Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Merricks Estate Pinot Noir 2014 750ML -10%
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Merricks Estate Pinot Noir 2014 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Merricks Estate Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Merricks Estate Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Merricks Estate Thompson's Lane Pinot Noir 2018 750ML -10%
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Merricks Estate Thompson's Lane Pinot Noir 2018 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Metala Shiraz Cabernet 750ML -10%
Metala Shiraz Cabernet 750ML
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Metala Shiraz Cabernet 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
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Weight: 1.200 kg
Unveiling the result of two decades of devoted cultivation, our Cabernet Sauvignon emerges from a single vineyard block nestled in Lobethal, where 23-year-old vines have stood since 1998. This exceptional terroir imparts a profound character, yielding a well-structured wine that embodies the quintessence of medium to full-bodied Cabernet perfection. A symphony of flavors awaits, drawing you into the heart of this varietal masterpiece. Dive into the depths of luscious blackcurrant and black cherry, a rich duet that dances on your palate. Embracing the senses with a warm embrace are notes of black olives, infusions of green capsicum, and...
In stock
Weight: 1.200 kg
Journey back to the origins of winemaking with our Merlot, a timeless testament to the heritage of viticulture. Among the earliest wine varieties cultivated, Merlot remains an enduring favorite cherished for its gentle and approachable nature. A symphony of ease and refinement, this Merlot unveils a sensory voyage that invites every palate to revel in its harmonious embrace. The wine's bouquet is a true ode to the earth from which it springs, an olfactory portrait of rich terroir. Embrace the beauty of an earthy character that graces the nose, a delicate reminder of the roots that nurture this wine's soul. On the palate, a symphony of...
In stock
Weight: 1.200 kg
Step into the embrace of time-honored vines that have gracefully weathered 23 years, culminating in grapes that overflow with an abundance of flavor. The 2021 vintage in the Adelaide Hills has proven to be a defining chapter, allowing this Shiraz to ascend to its rightful place as the illustrious flagship within the esteemed Mike Press portfolio. Prepare to embark on a journey of exquisite depth and character, as the palate unfolds in a tapestry of richness. Ripe red cherries, sumptuous blackberries, and luscious plums take center stage, a symphony of flavors that dance across the senses. This Shiraz is more than just a wine; it's a...
Mitchelton Heathcote Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Mitchelton Heathcote Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mitchelton Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Mitchelton Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mitchelton The Bend Cabernet Merlot 750ML -10%
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Mitchelton The Bend Cabernet Merlot 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Mitchelton The Bend Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Mitchelton The Bend Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.4% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Mitolo Jester Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Mitolo Jester Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mollydooker Carnival Love Shiraz 750ML -10%
Mollydooker Carnival Love Shiraz 750ML
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Mollydooker Carnival Love Shiraz 750ML ABV :15.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
In stock
Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Blueberry & blackcurrant with hints of chocolate Type Cabernet Merlot Style Deep & round From the Winemaker Morgan's Bay Cabernet Merlot is a medium to full-bodied palate, characterized by luscious raspberry and plum flavors, accented by subtle notes of mint. These vibrant fruit flavors are elegantly supported by a soft tannin structure, ensuring a well-balanced and enjoyable drinking experience. ABV (%): 13 Size:  750mL Country:  Australia
Morgan's Bay Shiraz Cabernet (750ml) -20%
In stock
Weight: 1.600 kg
Aroma & Palate Spicy berry aromas & ripe plum flavours Type Shiraz Style Fruity & easy drinking From the Winemaker This wine presents an abundance of upfront fruit sweetness that tantalizes the palate from the first sip. Soft tannins balance its rich and inviting flavours, leading to a smooth and satisfying finish. With its irresistible appeal, this wine is truly 'more-ish,' encouraging you to indulge and enjoy it now, without extensive ageing. ABV (%): 13.5 Size:  750ML Country: Australia
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML -10%
Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML
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Moss Wood Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML -10%
Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML
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Moss Wood Ribbon Vale Merlot 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mount Langi Cliff Edge Shiraz 750ML -10%
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Mount Langi Cliff Edge Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mount Langi Ghiran Billi Billi Shiraz 750ML -28%
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Mount Langi Ghiran Billi Billi Shiraz 750ML ABV :13% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA Finely structured tannins frame this medium bodied, generous wine, finishing with good balance and length. Billi Billi Shiraz is sourced from a selection of premium cool climate vineyards throughout Victoria; predominantly the Grampians including a portion from the Mount Langi Ghiran vineyards, home of the iconic Langi Shiraz.
Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 2018 750ML -10%
Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 2018 750ML
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Mount Langi Ghiran Talus Shiraz 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mount Langi Shiraz 2010 750ML -10%
Mount Langi Shiraz 2010 750ML
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Mount Langi Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mount Langi The Mast Shiraz 750ML -10%
Mount Langi The Mast Shiraz 750ML
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Mount Langi The Mast Shiraz 750ML ABV :14.8% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mountadam Patriarch Shiraz 750ML -10%
Mountadam Patriarch Shiraz 750ML
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Mountadam Patriarch Shiraz 750ML ABV :14% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :AUSTRALIA
Mrs Q Pinot Noir 750ML -10%
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Mrs Q Pinot Noir 750ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Mrs Q Sangiovese 750ML -10%
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Mrs Q Sangiovese 750ML ABV :15% Quantity : 1 Bottle
Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir 750 ML -10%
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Mt Difficulty Bannockburn Pinot Noir 750 ML ABV :13.5% Quantity : 1 Bottle Country :NEW ZEALAND
Mud House Central Otago Pinot Noir 750mL -11%
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750mL @ 13.5% abv A juicy and enticing Pinot Noir from Central Otago. Aromas of bold cherry and fresh red berries are underpinned by savoury notes and spicy oak. On the palate, dark fruit flavours flow into a smooth palate, delivering a long finish with fine tannins and juicy acidity.