After re-tasting the 2002 The Dead Arm Shiraz, I believe my initial rating is correct. It still plays it close to the vest, exhibiting loads of cassis, asphalt, smoke, and barbecue spice-like aromas along with full-bodied flavors. While well-made and impressive, it remains backward and restrained, and does not appear to be up to the quality of either the 2003 or the great 2001. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552

Rich, complex, but not at all heavy-handed, a plush, heady mouthful of black cherry, blackberry, menthol and a wee touch of forest mushroom, all mingling in a rich finish that lasts and lasts. Drink now through 2020. 500 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

Impresses the hell out of you on the first look—it offers controlled, pretty plum and berry fruit on the palate, with black pepper, cassis and graham cracker aromas. Overexamine it, though, and you start to find things that you wish were different (for me, it wants more intensity midpalate), but that doesn't mean that this isn't delicious. Why not just sit back and enjoy the mocha-laden finish, and leave analysis to another day?——D.T.(3/1/2005)—— 91