In Australian, the Taylors brand quickly established a strong reputation with their first vintage of cabernet sauvignon in 1973. The wine not only claimed gold medals at every national wine show but was also awarded the Montgomery Trophy at the prestigious Adelaide Wine show.

The Taylor family began exporting to the UK and Europe in 1985. Due to international trademark restrictions, the family market the wines under the Wakefield label, named after the Wakefield river, which runs through the vineyard.

Today, the family heritage continues to be nurtured and expanded under the watchful eye of Bill Taylor, who is Chairman of the company, and his sons. Mitchell is Managing Director and consulting winemaker. Mitchell’s brothers, Justin and Clinton also have key roles within the family firm.

To remain at the forefront of the Australian wine industry, Taylors has continued to ensure the winery challenges world standards through progressive practices. This is seen in the family’s commitment to bottling all wines under screw cap from the 2004 vintage going forward – the first major Australian wine company to do so.

Wakefield 2007 Clare Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Swirling a glass releases rich aromas of black cherry and plum, complicated by cedar and tobacco. Ripe dark fruit comes to life on the palate alongside suggestions of earth, cedar, coffee, and spice. A well balanced, approachable Cabernet, it a fine value for less than $20.

Score: 87

Price: $15-20

Wakefield 2009 Clare Valley Riesling

Sweet lime, apple, and lemon aromas blend with sweet spice and a few floral notes on the nose. A sip unfurls bright flavors of tart lime, fresh lemon, and granny-smith apple, accented by a hint of minerals and springtime flowers. A bright acidity and dry finish make this a clean, crisp wine. Fans of Sauvignon Blancs just might find something to like out of this Riesling.

Score: 88

Price: $15-20

Wakefield “Promised Land” 2008 Unwooded Chardonnay

Lush aromas of tropical fruit combine with notes of citrus on the nose. Flavors of peach, pineapple, and citrus fruits emerge on the palate. It has a fairly round mouthfeel for no oak but the wine is still laid back and balanced. Try a bottle if you’re not a fan of oaky Chardonnay but find that Sauvignon Blanc are a bit too crisp.

Score: 87

Price: $10-15

Wakefield “Promised Land” 2008 Shiraz-Cabernet

On the nose, aromas of ripe cherry and black currants meld with notes of spice and mocha. Flavors of cherry, raspberry,and plum intersect with hints of chocolate, cinnamon, spice, and pine. Smooth and lighter for this style of blend, it’s full of spices at the finish, making it a very good food wine.

Score: 88

Price: $10-15

Wakefield “Promised Land” 2009 Riesling

Notes of lemon and limeade along with floral suggestions and chemical hints appear on the nose. Citrus elements merge with highlights of rose petals and perfume on the palate. A bit out of the ordinary, fans of highly floral whites should give this bottle a try.

Score: 84

Price: $10-15

Wakefield 2008 Clare Valley Chardonnay

A bouquet of sourdough bread, lime, pineapple, and mango greets you. A sip and flavors of pineapple, lemon, and apple flow into pronounced notes of yeast at the finish. A restraint acidity and round mouthfeel make for an approachable character. The unusual flavor profile might take some getting used to for some. Giving the wine a day to breathe helps to open it up.

Score: 85

Price: $10-15