Montepulciano can make for some wonderfully hearty reds in its Italian homeland, and no surprises that this Aussie version has some purple fruit flavour to it. Dark berries, a little figs and molasses, and then rich but still savoury and spicy flavours all the way through to the finish. It's a wine that sneaks up on you with its chunky berry fruit deliciousness, with the added chocolatey edge thanks to almost two years ageing in oak barrels.

Origin: Central Italy, either Tuscany or Abruzzo. Mainly Grown In: Italy leads the way, with small amounts found in the USA and Australia. Key Facts: Confusingly sharing a name with a Tuscan town to which it has no relation, Montepulciano is the second most planted indigenous Italian red variety, behind Sangiovese. Found up and down the length of the country, it is successful in central Italy - with northern versions a little hard and green - due to Montepulciano's late-ripening tendencies. Often used for the production of rosé, Montepulciano has found happy homes in South Australia and California in recent decades, with smooth, medium bodied examples being produced. Fun Fact: The town of Montepulciano in Tuscany and the grape have nothing in common. Another example of the world of wine out to confuse us! Don't worry, we've got your back.