As is the case with all of life's pleasures, there is no substitute for quality; and the wines of Margaret River can pretty much be relied upon to fulfil this little rule of thumb every time.

It is hard to think of another wine appelation where the standard of across-the-board winemaking is so high. Those acquainted with our wines will agree that there's not too many bad ones out there.

Even the venerated Bordeaux can be home to some fairly mediocre drops, usually from large commercial chateaux committed, through necessity, to quantity sans quality.

Margaret River, on the other hand, prides itself on its premium product; and it is this commendable approach that has made it the envy of so many other famous regions around the world.

Therefore, when we at the Wine Centre put together a selection of local wines, patrons are guaranteed of getting something special. But of course, our members know all this already!

Almost as soon as our last newsletter was off the presses with the news of our sensational Festival Dozen, plus an exclusive opportunity to procure a six pack of the region's finest reds, the orders were coming in thick and fast.

Every label selected offered up an outstanding example of the unique varietal characteristics inherent in Margaret River wines. All will continue to improve with cellaring. Some of these, particularly the beautifully articulated Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon 1993 and the Cullen 1995 Cabernet Merlot, will be pure magic up to two decades hence.

Two decades! you say. That's too long. But fear not, gentle reader. You need not wait until you are hunched and grizzled in your wicker bath chair before imbibing.

These wines are also drinking beautifully right now, so if it is that, young, fruit driven style you crave, then break out the cork screw at will. When to drink is very much a personal choice. (Learn a bit about when is the best time uncork inside.)

Timing aside, both Summer selections were a sell out, which of course brings us nearly as much pleasure as these quite delightful wines will bring you! -

Ron Macfarlane