Blue Poles is one of those under-the-radar producers in Margaret River making seriously good wines without chasing the spotlight. The Allouran is their nod to the great Right Bank blends of Bordeaux, led by Merlot with Cabernet Franc playing an equally important role. The name itself comes from a medieval French term for ally or partner, which feels spot on for this combination.

The 2021 vintage was cooler and more measured, which suited these varieties beautifully. The wine has supple black and red fruits from the Merlot, lifted aromatics and savoury edges from the Franc, and a fine, gravelly tannin line that ties it all together. Its elegant, detailed and very much a food wine, but with enough generosity to enjoy on its own.

As always with the Allouran the value for monet is through the roof. This really is smart buying if you love structured, medium-bodied reds with character.

94 points
“Sophisticated. Claret-like. You can buy this with confidence.”
– Gary Walsh (The Wine Front)