Amongst a list of strong contenders, I think that this has to be my favourite red of last year on the basis that it has just about everything I'm looking for in my perfect wine.  It's got a superb inviting nose; it's got layers of ripe dark fruit, chocolate, subtle spice, herbs, creamy oak and masses more happening on the palate; there's good acidity adding freshness and lifting the palate; the tannins are very fine grained and ripe; the alcohol, whilst hefty, is really well balanced and adds to the wine rather than hindering it; and there's a massive length of finish.  In summary, rich and sumptuous but with a cool climate elegance that balances the wine.  And, for the quality, it's exceptionally well priced.

Every time we show this on tasting, we sell loads of it, so lots of you agree with me on this one.  Which is nice.

SC Rating - EXCEPTIONAL   (Mike)