The Little Penguin Merlot 2004
South Eastern Australia $11.95 (598912)

A muted, but involved nose of vanilla, mocha and floral notes that leads into mellow, round and smooth flavours of cherries and black ripe fruit. There are no rough edges to this ultra silky offering. It works well on its own and would be equally enjoyable with veal chops or chicken in a creamy pasta sauce. (VH)



Santa Rita "Reserva" Sauvignon Blanc 2004
Casablanca Valley $12.95 (253872)

From one of Chile's cool climate regions near the Pacific Ocean, a stunning and great value Sauvignon Blanc with rich fruit flavours (gooseberry, passion fruit, grapefruit) and zesty acidity. It's just well made through and through, with fresh fruit, great balance and a long clean finish. Pair it with a goat cheese and wild mushroom tart. (RP)


Casillero del Diablo Syrah 2004
Central Valley $11.45 (568055)

Intense variations on dark cherry here: cherry cola, cherry pie, ripe black cherry. It's well accented with spice and some smokey notes. There's a lot of wine here for this price, and it partners well with barbecued red meats. (RP)


Santa Alicia "Reserve" Carmenère 2003
Maipo Valley $10.50 (309302)

Carmenère is Bordeaux's "lost grape" that turned up in Chile's vineyards. It was thought for ages to have been Merlot and the two grapes do have some affinities. But Carmenère typically has more spice and savoury flavours, and generally has more stuffing. This is a lighter style, but it offers lovely dark fruit flavours, spiciness and balance. It's a real bargain at this price, and worth buying for all manner of barbecued meats. I think Carmenère is generally better drunk fairly young, but you could put this away for another two or three years. (RP)



Lou Black Shiraz 2002
Vin de Pays d'Oc $11.95

The new vintage of this wine will be on the shelves late May-early June. Compared to the 2001 this has a slightly different profile, with more earthy notes, and quite intense, pure fruit and vibrant spicy notes. It's still the well-made, very good value wine that it started out as a year or two ago. This is a great choice for summer grills. (RP)