Gioiello Estate was the chosen name for this family winery, in recognition of past generations of the Schiavello family who worked at a property named Gioiello (‘jewel’ in Italian), perched above a hillside town in Calabria, Italy.

This is an exquisitely presented Merlot from the Upper Goulburn. The aromas are immediately of chocolate, plum and blackcurrant with some subtle cedary touches. Rich dark fruit cake palate flavours are supported by ripe tannins and neatly applied oak. Nice spicy lift on the finish. Drink to: 2025-2034; Price: $30.00; Alcohol: 14.4%; Rating: 93 Points; Ray Jordan

Matured in French barriques for 18 months. A charming and serious merlot that moves – no, glides – across the palate in the pursuit of savouriness. It's ripe in blackberry, mulberry, stewed plums, violet and a leafiness that brings an attractive herbal edge. Surrounded in toasty oak and leather, it calls out for a food accompaniment. Drink to: 2026; Rating: 92 Points; James Halliday Wine Companion