BLESSED FROM WEST

Sandalford was founded in 1840 on the banks of the Swan River, northeast of Perth. When Margaret River was identified as a prime grape growing area, Sandalford was a pioneer of the region and planted 300ha in 1970 to supplement its historic Swan Valley property. Under winemaker Hope Metcalf, the label looks youthful as it marches towards its 180th birthday. Wines available at major retailers.

PRENDIVILLE RESERVE CHARDONNAY, 2016

Ripe, expressive stone fruit and lemon profile balanced with the savoury briny sea spray Margaret River influence and subtle nutty oak. The finish is long, fine and controlled.

Rating: 9/10 RRP: $75 Alc: 12%

MARGARET RIVER CABERNET MERLOT, 2017

Cabernet benefits from blending with Merlot to create an easy drinking plush, approachable wine with flavours of black and purple berries, earthy asphalt, bramble and vanilla oak. Ready to drink now. Rating: 8/10

RRP: $21.95 Alc: 14.5%

ESTATE RESERVE SHIRAZ, 2016

Evocatively spiced and perfumed: dripping with blue plums, mulberries, mocha oak and toasted brown spices. Powerful, yet slinky across the tongue with chocolate and ripe berries aplenty. Sandy tannins finish the deal. A few years in the cellar won’t hurt it. Rating: 8.5/10 RRP: $35 Alc: 15%