22/12/2025
I got to open something pretty special this week â a gift from my dear friends Paul and Mara at Paulmara Estate, and I couldnât not share it with you all.
The brand new 2024 release of The Mèlèe was bottled only a few weeks ago and itâs already drinking beautifully. A blend of Sangiovese (75%), Shiraz (20%) and just 5% Malbec, it really shows how thoughtful blending can let each grape do its thing. You get that lovely Italian savoury line and structure, plenty of generous Aussie fruit, and just a gentle softening from the Malbec to pull it all together on the palate.
What I love most is how easy it is to enjoy right now. Itâs complex and interesting, but not hard work, the kind of wine you can happily open with friends, while knowing itâll absolutely reward a few more years in the cellar too.
I was lucky enough to share this bottle with a small group of chef mates and supporters of The Wandering Cellar Door. My good friend Pat â who already knows The Mèlèe from earlier vintages â was genuinely blown away by the balance of spice and fruit in this one. Always a good sign.
Paul and Mara, thank you. Not just for the bottle, but for trusting me enough to want my thoughts on something so fresh and so personal to you. That means more than you probably realise.
Iâm really looking forward to sharing more of your new releases in the new year and continuing to put wines like this in front of people who love a great story in the glass.
Buy it here nowâŚ.
https://www.paulmara.com.au/wine/2024-m-l-e