Nicely crafted, this Clare Valley Shiraz delivers an unusual level of balance and elegance for the price. Herbal, peppery aromas lead off, followed by raspberry fruit framed by vanilla. The tannins are soft but present, the fruit sweetness balanced by crisp acids. It’s not so much a flashy wine as a balanced one to pair with a variety of meat dishes.——J.C.(12/1/2008)—— 90