Tenuta Sant’ Antonio Valpolicella 2007 

Remarkably full-bodied for a Valpolicella. The thick, lush red fruit is startling. But the crescendo quickly softens and that rustic, somewhat herbal Italian finish comes shining through. This wine would be a great companion with red pasta sauces, well-seasoned pork, pate’ or Asiago cheese.

David Ferrie

Shaw & Smith Adelaide Hills Shiraz 2004

A lush and ponderous nose gives way to dense, wild, black raspberries and finishes with flowery, crushed violets. The fruit expression was more red than I had expected but the intensity and focus more than made up for any initial disappointment. Great with steaks, grilled meats and chocolate cake.

David Ferrie

Cantele Salice Salentino 

This Italian is from Salento, which forms the southernmost part of Puglia and flanks the Adriatic and Iona Seas. This red presents with a lush, intense black raspberry nose. The flavors are a bit lean with a soft red fruit, which would appeal to people looking for an alternative to Pinot Noir. This has an elegant, smooth and lithe mouth-feel, delivering a pleasant, albeit short finish