The 2001 Syrah Astralis Vineyard may be just as compelling as the 2002. Tighter because of being in the bottle, it is an extraordinary effort that offers the essence of graphite, blackberry liqueur, espresso, and acacia flowers, all combining into an olfactory smorgasbord for the senses. Sensationally concentrated, with sweet tannin, but neither weighty nor over the top as might be expected for a wine of such extreme richness, it is an extraordinarily well-delineated Syrah that should hit its prime in 10-12 years, and last for 30-40. Hail Caesar ... I mean Roman!Imported by USA Wine West LLC, San Rafael, CA; tel. (800)-485-5753, for John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection

A powerhouse, dark and dense, loaded with pepper and licorice flavors running through the solid blackberry, cherry and plum fruit, persisting on the chewy, oaky finish. There's a lot packed in. Needs cellaring. Best after 2007. 125 cases imported. -HS