Australia & NZ
These far-flung wine regions may be referred to ‘new’ when compared against the historic European wine regions, but they have a long winemaking history. Spared from Phylloxera, Australia in particular has world's highest concentration of venerable vines and legendary producers such as Penfolds, Henschke and Tyrell’s have been around for over 150 years. Though for many years piggybacking on Europe’s successes, branding their own wines as ‘Chablis’, ‘Hermitage’ etc., Australia now have created a real identity of their own, making inimitable styles like Coonawarra Cabernet or Hunter Valley Semillon.
New Zealand doesn’t quite have as an extensive history but has established itself in an astonishingly short amount of time as a reliable source of whistle clean, distinctive examples of varietals like Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.
Australia & NZ
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Emanating from the premium vineyards of Western Australia, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 is a true connoisseur's delight. This lustrous Cabernet Sauvignon has been matured in French oak barrels, offering an extraordinary balance of tannins and fruit profiles. The meticulous cultivation process under cool maritime-influenced climate imparts a distinctive depth to its full-bodied palate.
Characterised by intricate layers of well-ripened blackcurrants, delicate chocolate undertones and a hint of earthy complexity, the Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 exhibits great finesse. Ingeniously crafted by Woodside Valley Estate, a respected producer known for their attention to detail and unwavering quality standards, this wine is a testament to their expertise.
The 2004 vintage speaks volumes of the terroir's unique characteristics, making this wine a superb choice for those seeking a tasting experience replete with the essence of Australian vineyards. Indulge in the remarkable Woodside Valley Baudin Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 - a wine that truly stands in a class of its own.
HK$2,355.00 -
Vinous (91)
The 2015 Black Label from Wynns, which debuted way back in 1954 but only sported a black label from 1965, is aged for 18 months in 19% new oak. It has a ravishing bouquet of black cherries, menthol, lavender and pitted black olives, well defined and displaying just the right amount of plushness. The palate offers vibrant red fruit laced with white pepper and clove, plus touches of orange peel. There’s plenty of vibrancy here, and hints of cough candy toward the well-balanced, fresh finish. This is a delightful Cabernet Sauvignon that is à point but will have no problem aging for another 20 years.HK$1,840.00 -
Andrew Caillard MW (100)
Deep crimson. Lovely pure blackcurrant elderberry herb garden aromas with hints of espresso/ roasted chestnut notes. Beautiful concentrated wine with blackcurrant elderberry chinotto herb flavours, fine-grained and plentiful yet vigorous tannins, superb mid palate richness and integrated roasted chestnut/ cedar oak notes. Finishes chalky firm with a long inky/ graphite plume. Made for the long haul. Powerfully expressive yet unforced wine with superb vinosity, richness, density and volume. Superb. The fruit derives from the V&A (Victoria & Albert) and Nursery Vineyards, both located on classic terra rossa soils. From a dry, mild to warm growing season. Wait a few years to let it unfold, 2025-2050.HK$3,000.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19.5+)
This is the most incredible Wynns Cabernet I can remember. This is a fairly heavy statement because I have been drinking these wines for 35 years and on my website you will find vertical tastings of Wynns epic reds going back to 1957. Wynns is Coonawarra’s most famous and historic wine estate and John Riddoch is its flagship wine. This is one of only a handful of Australian wines sold via La Place de Bordeaux, the elite distribution system for top Bordeaux châteaux and a limited number of top-class vins étrangers. I am convinced this wine will be one of the most sought-after non-French wines since La Place opened up its portfolio to wines like Opus One. With only 35% new French oak barriques and hogsheads involved, the sensational Coonawarra Cabernet is allowed to sing at its purest and most melodic in this spectacular vintage. What amazes me is the extraordinary complexity of perfume, flavour, depth and length in this wine. It expands on the palate in all directions without being a heavy or imposing wine. I have awarded the wine a score of 19.5+/20 in my notes, which puts it in the very highest echelons of cabernet sauvignon in the world. The balance is extraordinary, not least because, at only three years old, it can be swallowed and savoured with ease, and yet there must be three or four decades ahead for this majestic wine.HK$3,620.00 -
(6x75cl) 2020
The Real Review (97)
Impressively dense, dark, glass-staining colour with a strong tint of purple. Concentrated and superripe blackberry aromas, bright and intense and beautifully ripe with minimal herbal accents. Nuances of tar and licorice as well. It's full bodied and rich, concentrated and ample, with lashings of supple, fine-grained tannins and a long carry. A powerful wine but one that glides across the palate effortlessly. A beautiful and long-term cabernet.HK$4,380.00 -
(6x75cl) 2021
Halliday Wine Companion (98)
16 months French oak hogsheads and barriques (31% new, the balance one to six years old) and 22 months in bottle prior to release. A cacophony of blackberries, Bing cherries and elderberries. Blackcurrant leaf, acaí and prune skin. Black coffee, vanilla pod, ash and charcoal. Acidity wisps about the palate like magic, a mesh of thread-like tannins pull and draw the focus. A hint of dark chocolate bitters; the wine finishes perky with echoing tunes of granite. It's just so centered and chic. Pure cabernet poise.HK$4,380.00 -
Bob Campbell MW (97)
Marries elegance with depth and power, elegance controlling the union. Whereas oak is often very obvious in young Michael releases, here it is just a veneer for the supple plum, black cherry and blackberry fruits, the tannins likewise perfectly pitched. Coonawarra didn't miss out on the great '12 vintage.HK$4,200.00 -
Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 epitomises the elegance and finesse characteristic of premium cool-climate viticulture. Sourced from Yabby Lake’s prestigious Block 6 vineyard in the heart of the Yarra Valley, this Pinot Noir benefits from meticulously managed vine canopies and optimal ripening conditions. Hand-harvested grapes undergo a gentle fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving delicate aromatics and vibrant acidity. Aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, the wine develops subtle vanilla and spice notes without overshadowing its intrinsic fruit profile. Crafted by the esteemed Yabby Lake winery, renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices, the 2017 vintage displays a nuanced palate of dark cherry, raspberry, and earthy undertones, supported by silky tannins and a lingering finish. Perfectly poised to cellar or enjoy now, Yabby Lake Block 6 Pinot Noir 2017 is a testament to exceptional craftsmanship and terroir expression.
HK$1,140.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed leaving 25% whole bunches in traditional oak ferment, 3-4 days cold soak, 14 days on skins, pressed to French puncheons for 11 months maturation. Exceptional colour; super supple mouthfeel, a velvety mid-palate balanced by savoury/foresty glimpses on the finish. Retasted in '20, vibrant and still in primary mode with juicy pinot fruit. A drink-to date is largely irrelevant.HK$3,415.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Hand-picked and sorted, gently destemmed, partial whole berry adherence for stems, 4 days cold soak, wild-fermented, 14 days on skins, pressed to tight-grain puncheons for 8 months maturation. A layered palate interleaving velvety fruit and hints of forest on the long, medium-bodied palate. Trophy Best Pinot Noir Mornington Peninsula Wine Show.HK$1,320.00 -
(1x75cl) 2018The Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 epitomises exceptional viticulture and craftsmanship from Tasmania’s renowned Yabby Lake region. Hand-harvested from meticulously selected blocks, the grapes benefit from the vineyard’s unique terroir, characterised by cool maritime influences and well-drained soils. Fermented using native yeast strains in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, this Pinot Noir undergoes a meticulous vinification process to preserve its elegance and complexity. The wine is aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, imparting subtle vanilla and spice notes while maintaining its vibrant fruit profile. Expertly produced by the acclaimed Yabby Lake Estate, known for sustainable farming practices and dedication to quality, the 2018 vintage exhibits a harmonious balance of ripe red berries, delicate floral nuances, and a refined earthy undertone. With its silky tannins and lingering finish, the Yabby Lake Pinot Noir Single Vineyard 2018 is a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking a quintessential expression of fine Australian Pinot Noir.
HK$790.00 -
James Suckling (98)
This is a strong cross-regional combination. Immense depth of olives, cassis, blue plums and iodine with blackberries, earthy nuances, fragrant baking spices and chocolate. The palate is beautifully assembled with deep-set tannins that carry long and majestic. Rich dark-fruit flavors. A landmark first release that will drink well for decades. Drink from 2024.HK$4,750.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19.5+)
2013 is a powerhouse, with density, structure and presence, but it is not a heavy wine! Instead, this is a cerebral, through-provoking number with layer upon layer of savoury, noble fruit. The differences between the yin and yang of these two vintages is also evident in the blend. 2012 was made of 79% Cabernet (of which 27% was Barossan and the lion’s share was from Coonawarra) and 21% Barossa Shiraz. In 2013 KG marries 55% Coonawarra Cabernet with 45% Barossa Shiraz. This is a more ‘historical-Aussie-claret-shaped’ wine and the extra splash of Barossa Shiraz helps to bring flesh to the upright, masterful Cabernet.HK$4,160.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.HK$1,965.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
It falls safe into the hands of excellence. It has the shape, complexity, fruit power, overall balance and then the length to make its price-tag look justifiable. It's going to age like an absolute beauty. Both intricately and firmly tannin, ripped with blackcurrant, lightened by mint and slipped with undergrowth and cedar wood characters. Nothing is overdone and yet everything has a presence, a power.HK$4,910.00 -
The Real Review (98)
This wine is continuing to build, and is now showing a glorious perfume, the aromatics similar to the 2012, which set a very high standard that this vintage reaches and arguably surpasses. Spicy and ultra-complex, with shiraz and Barossa both evident in the wine. It's very intense, taut and concentrated, as well as finely-textured and incredibly long in the mouth. A great wine of wonderful purity and harmony. (74% Coonawarra cabernet, 26% Barossa shiraz)HK$4,750.00 -
Matthew Jukes (20++)
You have seen my MoneyWeek article above and this time that is all you are getting. This wine WILL feature in my 100 Best Australian Wines Report 2021-22, which WILL be released this year. Forgive me for the capitals, but I have had enough of this pandemic and so I am pressing on regardless. You already know my score, but here it is again and it certainly bears repeating. But before I type this perfect number again I would like to inform you that I tasted 450 bottles of 2020 En Primeur Bordeaux this year and I would, of course, love you to download this Report from this website. The reason for mentioning this is that none of them warranted a perfect score, so I hope that this underlines just how remarkable it is that The Caley has done this twice in five years and also, with an average of 19.6/20, this accounts for my lofty headline at the top of this article.HK$1,965.00 -
Matthew Jukes (20++)
You have seen my MoneyWeek article above and this time that is all you are getting. This wine WILL feature in my 100 Best Australian Wines Report 2021-22, which WILL be released this year. Forgive me for the capitals, but I have had enough of this pandemic and so I am pressing on regardless. You already know my score, but here it is again and it certainly bears repeating. But before I type this perfect number again I would like to inform you that I tasted 450 bottles of 2020 En Primeur Bordeaux this year and I would, of course, love you to download this Report from this website. The reason for mentioning this is that none of them warranted a perfect score, so I hope that this underlines just how remarkable it is that The Caley has done this twice in five years and also, with an average of 19.6/20, this accounts for my lofty headline at the top of this article.HK$4,750.00 -
The Real Review (99)
Good depth and hue of colour it's still purple-tinted at this age. The bouquet is fresh and bold, replete with forest-floor/mint and dried-herb nuances, while the palate is very powerful, concentrated, full-bodied and firmly constructed. Deep-set cassis fruit as well, still partially in hiding. This is a dense, power-packed cabernet-driven red with abundant tannins. Tremendously long finish. A magnificent wine, which has what it takes to age and reward cellaring for the long term. (80% Coonawarra cabernet, 20% Barossa shiraz)HK$2,100.00 -
(6x75cl) 2019HK$11,805.00 -
The Real Review (97)
Ink black core, deep ruby and purple tones into the rim. Heady nose of ripe mulberry, ironstone, anise and cedar shavings. The palate fills with plush blue and purple fruits, an instant realisation that many elements are in play, all melded with a seamless purity that impresses. Savoury notes of ferrous minerals, dark spices and mocha all build this wine up whilst fine, gravelly tannins ensure that intensity translates to a driven and incredibly long palate. This is just a pup but so approachable in its texture, will build even more as it ages.HK$3,540.00 -
Vinous (96)
The 2015 The Signature cellar release is powerful yet understated with mulberry, blackberry and clove spice against a backdrop of beautifully integrated oak. This is rich, fleshy and still youthful, with a lovely even flow. Its fruit power and tension are still holding strong. The 2015 is getting close to its peak but has plenty left to give over at least a decade, if not two.HK$2,990.00 -
James Suckling (96)
A very youthful vintage, this is taut and will age very well. Aromas of blackcurrants, tar, blackberries and baking spices lead to a palate that has such an intense, gently smoky thread with a succulent, juicy red-plum, berry and spice finish. Light espresso. Super long-aging Signature here. A blend of Barossa cabernet sauvignon and shiraz. Try from 2024.HK$2,380.00 -
HK$2,925.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (97)
A stellar viognier. A wine that fans of the northern Rhone, such as myself, increasingly hold in great esteem. A complete understanding of the physiological tendencies of the variety is apparent: a salubrious texture. Unafraid of viscosity, weight and phenolics. Then, the aroma! Apricot, orange blossom, cumquat, honeysuckle and crystalline ginger. Long, slippery and yet not out of hand. A gentle chew and impeccable oak management reining it all in across the seams. Very fine.HK$1,890.00 -
HK$2,577.00 -
James Suckling (96)
A cooler vintage has tuned this into darker fruit aromas and flavors, as well as attractively spicy notes and a wealth of rich blackcurrants, blueberries and dark stones. Some leafy aromas here, too. The palate holds a richly concentrated core of black fruit in deeply powerful tannins. Seamlessly integrated oak. So impressive. A star of the 2017 vintage. A blend of 53% cabernet sauvignon and 47% shiraz. Drink over the next decade.HK$1,375.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (96)
Sourced from a propitiously sited single plot, where sand meets ironstone. Sorted abstemiously following hand picking. Wild fermented on skins for 16 days. Élévage in a combination of new and older French puncheons, in addition to a 25L foudre following a barrel cull and blending. Density and pliancy, the calling cards. All offset by the juiciest red cherry-skinned tannins flecked with violet, blueberry, rose petal and spice, directing the fray. Tactile barely describes this, so moreish and conducive to the next glass, as it draws the saliva in preparation.HK$920.00 -
James Suckling (100)
So plush with a mix of red and blue-fruit aromas on the nose, as well as blood-orange and almost violet-like floral notes. The palate is very plush and juicy with such a long, seamless and silky feel. Super intense and very, very plush with deep, deep rich fruit. Mouthwatering. Super long. Super rich.HK$6,765.00 -
Halliday Wine Companion (99)
Special Value. Ex 1946 Blewitt Springs bush vines planted in a deep sandy dune that Yangarra call The Beach; dry-grown, bunch-sorted, wild yeast, open fermented and basket pressed. Bright clear though deep crimson hue; scented/perfumed, and I'm gone for all money without even tasting it. And I haven't fooled myself. Except why on earth is it only $45? Its red fruit sundae glistens with dew drops on a spider's web, yet also has a savoury echo towards the finish.HK$1,765.00
