Members' Favourites Fine Wine Case

A blend of 38% cabernet sauvignon, 36% merlot and more or less equal proportions of cabernet franc and petit verdot, the 2014 Charmail displays notes of berry fruit, graphite and a hint of coffee. Notes of berry fruit, graphite and a hint of coffee overlay the firmness of structure that characterises many wines of the northern Médoc. If you are looking for a proper northern Médoc claret with classic character and structure for winter drinking and dining, then this is for you.

This field blend is 90% zinfandel, 6% petite sirah and 4% Alicante Bouschet, coming from mostly vines planted before Prohibition and managed by the Pagani family at their ranch in Sonoma Valley. The vineyard sits in an enclave that benefits from the Pacific fog for longer each morning, allowing for slower, later ripening, and fresher natural acidity. This zinfandel has the Ridge thumb print clearly on it, showing complexity, class and balance. Red-berry fruits and plum are vibrant on the nose, with mocha, tobacco and mulberry developing. This wine is singing on release but will age beautifully too.

Michael Brajkovich MW was recognised by the Insititute of Masters of Wine as chardonnay winemaker of the year, and with wines like this it is easy to see why. His Kumeu River chardonnays are world renowned, and this appley, flinty, bright and elegant 2022 was a surefire Champion, earning plaudits for its ‘tension, precision and minerality.`

Precise and delicately aromatic, with hints of lime leaf, tisane and flint, with chalky minerality, salty tang and a fresh, long finish.

Pioneering and ever-popular South African syrah-based blend, admirable for its consistent quality despite large production volumes, ripe but with a pleasing freshness and elegance. A benchmark Swartland red to indulge in now, but there's no hurry. 74% syrah in 2021, with more cinsault than in previous years, and grenache, cabernet sauvignon and just the merest dash of aromatic viognier. As Matthew Horsley takes over as South Africa buyer from Joanna Locke MW, this is one of his picks as a wine that shows why he's excited to pick up the reins.

From the fine 2022 vintage, this has been matured in old oak foudres on its lees for eight months to allow some development of flavour and texture while conferring some richness without contributing any oak flavour.