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Since then the company has grown to become highly respected, earning five red stars from James Halliday in his latest Wine Companion.

It was with great excitement then that Tasting Panel member Trent Mannell and renowned wine writer Nick Ryan headed to Coonawarra for a dream vertical of some of this esteemed family’s greatest wines. Of the day, Nick Ryan had this to say:

“A day tasting at Zema makes several things clearly evident. The authenticity of the place and the people, the remarkably consistent quality of the wine and the quietly diligent way the Zema family care for some of Conawarra’s best dirt.”

To read more about the results of this tasting check out the autumn edition of Selector magazine.

Pop them in the fridge about 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve them and you’ll find, especially lighter bodied reds such as Pinot Noir and Barbera, come out as a pleasantly cool sip. Of course you could always go for a Rosé or a Sparkling red which are both absolutely delicious served refreshingly chilled. When it comes to white, you can obviously chill all varieties. However, bear in mind that if you make them too cold you’ll destroy the subtleties imparted by the winemaker and therefore halve the potential enjoyment.

And always remember that anytime you’re enjoying a glass of wine, make sure there’s plenty of cool water to accompany it. As a general rule, it’s recommended that for every glass of wine you have, follow it up with a glass of water.

The vineyard’s location in the region is vital. The vines must be cared for; yields must be low with only ripe, high quality fruit picked to make a premium quality wine.

It’s also important to have the right grape variety planted in the right regions. Classic variety and region combinations include: Shiraz or Semillon from the Hunter Valley; Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon from the Barossa or Coonawarra; Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay from Margaret River.

The winemaker or winery is often a good guide to quality. Wine producers with a proven track record are usually worth paying a premium price for. The experience gained over many years ensures they consistently make wine at a high quality level and avoid mistakes, even in difficult vintages.

Blue chip wine producers include Henschke, Moss Wood, Penfolds and Petaluma. These labels have excellent reputations and command premium prices for their wines.

Guided by an expert wine educator, this unique event takes you through the various aspects of wine production, right through to the finished product. There are two opportunities to join one of these special trips over the next couple of months:

Hunter Valley Vintage Education Tour
On our annual visit to the Hunter, we will be visiting Keith Tulloch Wines for a winery tour and tasting, followed by Bimbadgen Estate where we will also enjoy a sumptuous lunch at Esca. In the afternoon we will drop in at Ballabourneen for a final tasting.

This tour takes place on 20 February and departs from both Sydney and Newcastle. To book click here.

Goulburn Valley Vintage Education Tour
Victorian members and guests will be treated to a special trip to one Australia’s most unique wine regions, the Goulburn Valley. Our first stop is Tahbilk, located in the Nagambie Lakes region of central Victoria, one of the nation's premium viticultural areas where guests will enjoy a winery tour and tasting. From there we will take the houseboat down the river to Mitchelton, known as the Heart of Victorian Shiraz. Lunch will be in the Mitchelton Restaurant overlooking the Goulburn Valley.

This tour takes place on 20 March. To book click here.

With a highly coveted James Halliday five red star rating, Bird in Hand is at the pinnacle of Australian wine quality.

Their Nest Egg range represents the finest wines from each vintage and their release depends on a near perfect growing season. The meticulous winemaking approach sees all Nest Egg wines matured in the finest French oak then individually numbered.

The 2008 Nest Egg Shiraz is beautifully dense and dark with rich cassis aromas. The palate has perfect structure and is assertive yet feminine in style. Flavours of plum and white pepper characterise the elegant palate which also has terrific line and length and a lovely savoury layer.

Refer a friend* today and when they join you’ll receive a bottle of this exceptional wine along with four fine Schott Zwiesel European crystal glasses to enjoy it in. Total value $135!

Stocks are limited so to secure yours, refer a friend today!

*Terms and Conditions Apply!