“This edition of On the Vine is dedicated to the art of up-and-coming varietals. We have selected six wines that perfectly capture the warmer seasons, but are still fit for drinking all year round.

While there is always a place for chardonnay, this collection moves away from oak influence to focus on wines that deliver crisp, fresh fruit in abundance. In the whites, Chenin Blanc is the variety on everyone’s lips right now, and the Forester Estate Lifestyle release is an absolute cracker. It’s joined by the Thunderstone Riesling, a new release sourced from the Porongurups that stands out as one of the most exciting examples of the varietal we have seen in some time. To round out the lighter styles, the Leeuwin Estate Rosé is a brilliant example of affordable, fresh drinking, best served nice and chilled.

The reds selected for this edition are distinctively different. De Bortoli delivers a Pinot Noir Syrah blend, designed for the early drinking zone. With its vibrant fruit and low tannins, it is ideal for chilling. We also feature a continental blend from Vino Volta that is perfect for a barbecue, alongside a classic Langhorne Creek Malbec that offers soft, approachable fruit weight, with impeccably balanced tannins.

Happy drinking.“

– Ray Jordan

On the vine volume 14 tasting notes

FORESTER ESTATE LIFESTYLE CHENIN BLANC 2025 | 92/100

This is another standout example of the high-quality Chenin Blancs emerging from Margaret River. Crafted entirely without oak, it is designed to be a pure snapshot of the fruit and the vintage. It offers a delightful blend of soft tropical nuances, crisp apple, and pear, sharpened by a fine streak of lime. The palate delivers a vibrant mix of fresh citrus and light tropical notes, lifted by the taste of sliced pear. A thoroughly enjoyable wine that is perfect for drinking now.

THUNDERSTONE RIESLING 2024 | 95/100

This Riesling offers a unique spin, feeling as though it has been biding its time for the perfect moment to shine. It carries the flavour intensity expected from a warm Porongurup vintage, yet balances it with a distinct lightness and finesse. On the palate, a grainy, gravelly texture mingles with notes of spice, crisp apple, and wet granite. It is a compelling combination, delivering tremendous flavour definition and a finish that lingers. A truly exciting expression of the style.

VINO VOLTA LA CHINGADERA TEMPRANILLO TOURIGA SHIRAZ GRENACHE 2021| 93/100

The harmony achieved in this blend of varietals is exceptional. Drawing fruit from Margaret River, the Swan Valley, and Geographe, it is crafted to be a lively, bright, and fruit-forward wine. Time spent in old barriques has coaxed out aromas of plum and rose petal, elevated by lifted raspberry and dried herb nuances. The palate is undeniably juicy, with a velvety smoothness and succulent texture that flows into a lovely, savoury finish. A truly fine example of the style.

LEEUWIN ESTATE ROSÉ 2025 | 92/100

The hue is a brilliant salmon pink, and the nose bursts with a lively medley of red berry, strawberry, and exotic floral notes. On the palate, it is light-bodied with a delightful texture, perfectly balanced by a fine, lingering acidity. Absolutely delicious and crafted for effortless enjoyment over the next few years.

DE BORTOLI CHILL NO CHILL PINOT NOIR SYRAH 2024 | 91/100

Intentionally crafted to be enjoyed chilled. It is light in body yet full of intent and flavour. The style keeps tannins to a minimum, placing the focus firmly on the fruit, which is soft, supple, and brimming with red berry notes. A beautifully sustained wine with a lovely lift on the finish.

BREMERTON SPECIAL RELEASE MALBEC 2023 | 93/100

Malbec is synonymous with Langhorne Creek, and this wine is a compelling example of why. It bursts with aromas of spicy violet and characteristic red fruits. The palate is plush and supple, supported by fine tannins. Despite seeing 14 months in oak, there isn’t a hint of woodiness here—the fruit remains pure and simply stunning.

Liquor Barons, delivering fine wines for over 25 Years. Head to our allocated On The Vine stores (below) to grab your $110 Premium Wine Six Pack.