Tahbilk is not only the oldest family-owned wine estate in Victoria (1862), it’s also carbon neutral and has a stellar reputation for quality. This cool-climate Cabernet is “terrific value” (Halliday). A leafy, ripe, spicy plum Cabernet that’ll age.

In 1920, wine lover Reg Purbrick was offered a glass of brandy from Chteau Tahbilk. Five years later, he purchased the property unseen! Reg’s son Eric inherited his father’s love of wine and, during the Great Depression, he gave up a law degree to decamp to Oz and take up the reins at Tahbilk. Three generations later, Hayley Purbrick is in charge of sustainability, while her father, Alistair, runs the estate. They are just one of eight wineries worldwide to be classified carbon neutral. Their 160 hectares of regenerated wetland and native vegetation are beneficial to the climate, as well as offering trails for all to enjoy. This fine, barrel-aged Cabernet is from cool Nagambie Lakes dark spicy berry fruit with a leafy edge. Decant early.