Michael Loken

Anselmann Edesheimer Ordensgut Weissburgunder Kabinett Trocken 2012, Pradikätswein

Crisp and clean, this wine has a distinct aroma of pears and green apples. The taste is relatively light, but well balanced with a good finish. This is a well constructed and elegant wine; composed and controlled.

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2014, Swartland

Tenuta Sette Ponti Crognolo 2012, Igt Toscana

D'angelo Aglianico Del Vulture 2010, Doc Basilicata

Dry and dusty with flavours of cedar, tobacco and mineral earth, this is a really interesting wine. The dry finish was not overpowering for people around my dinner table, but it could be unappealing if you don't like dry reds. A great bottle for fans of rustic, Italian wines.

Flat Rock Cellars Pinot Noir 2013, VQA Niagara Peninsula

Not being a huge pinot drinker, I really don't have a lot of context on this. That being said, the wine is smooth and composed, full of bright red fruit flavours. Something we will probably try again.

Heartland Spice Trader Shiraz Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Langhorne Creek

Famille Perrin La Gille Gigondas 2012, Ac

The experience of this wine was dominated by a saline, salt water character that that overpowered the other flavours and aromas involved. No one who tasted the bottle had ever sampled a wine with this type of flavour profile. Not a wine I would drink again.

Trapiche Broquel Malbec 2013

A consistent solid buy, particularly as it goes regularly on sale for $2 off. A rich, full flavoured malbec with notes of chocolate, spices and black fruits. A bottle I regularly keep in the cellar.

Graham's Late Bottled Vintage Port 2009, Douro Valley

This is a really sensational port for the price. It has a lovely, sweet nose which does not contain some of the harsh or overpowering notes that can be imparted by the fortifying liquor. The ,mouth feel is silky and luxurious with flavour of chocolate and plums complimented by some floral notes.

Elderton Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Barossa, South Australia