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THE DEVINO SOCIETY JOURNAL

August 2026

Sommelier Selection · Reds

August's collection celebrates two outstanding Australian wine regions alongside timeless Italian classics, bringing together structured Cabernet, elegant Shiraz, expressive Malbec and iconic regional reds for a rich late-winter tasting journey.

Sommelier's Note

This month's selection highlights how exceptional wines can emerge from both established Australian producers and centuries-old Italian wineries. Compare the freshness of Margaret River and Canberra with the warmth and history of Tuscany, Puglia and Umbria.


Australia
JUNIPER
2024 Cabernet Sauvignon
Elegant, vibrant and beautifully structured.
Tasting Notes

Blackcurrant, cassis and dark cherry layered with cedar and subtle spice, finishing with fine tannins and excellent length.

Best Served With

Grilled ribeye, roast lamb or mature cheddar.

From the Cellar

Margaret River produces less than 3% of Australia's wine, yet is internationally renowned for exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.


Australia
JUNIPER
2025 Malbec
Rich, velvety and beautifully expressive.
Tasting Notes

Black plum, blackberry and dark chocolate with hints of violet and spice, supported by silky tannins and a long, elegant finish.

Best Served With

Chargrilled steak, slow-cooked beef or aged hard cheeses.

From the Cellar

Margaret River's cool maritime climate produces a refined and elegant expression of Malbec.


Australia
NICK O'LEARY
2024 Shiraz
Elegant, savoury and beautifully refined.
Tasting Notes

Dark plum, blackberry and cracked pepper layered with subtle spice, fine tannins and a long, silky finish.

Best Served With

Grilled lamb, slow-cooked beef or chargrilled vegetables.

From the Cellar

Canberra District Shiraz is celebrated for its elegance, peppery spice and vibrant natural acidity.


Italy
RINOMATA TOMBACCO
2024 Primitivo di Manduria
Rich, velvety and beautifully concentrated.
Tasting Notes

Ripe blackberry, plum and sweet spice with notes of dark chocolate, soft tannins and a long, warming finish.

Best Served With

Slow-cooked beef, grilled lamb or aged Pecorino.

From the Cellar

Primitivo takes its name from the Italian word 'primo' because it is one of the earliest grape varieties to ripen each season.


Italy
SAN GORGONE
Il Sorvallo Chianti D.O.C.G.
Classic, vibrant and beautifully balanced.
Tasting Notes

Ripe cherry, wild berries and delicate savoury herbs supported by gentle spice, fine tannins and a smooth finish.

Best Served With

Pasta with ragù, grilled meats or aged Pecorino.

From the Cellar

Chianti D.O.C.G. is one of Italy's most iconic appellations, built around Sangiovese's freshness and food-friendly style.


Italy
SCACCIADIAVOLI
2024 Umbria Rosso
Smooth, generous and beautifully approachable.
Tasting Notes

Ripe black cherry, plum and subtle spice with soft tannins, gentle earthy notes and a long savoury finish.

Best Served With

Charcuterie, roast pork or tomato-based pasta dishes.

From the Cellar

Founded in 1884, Scacciadiavoli is one of Umbria's oldest wineries; its name means 'Devil Chaser'.


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