The 2002 Holly's Blend, a 2,300-case cuvee of 100% Verdelho from McLaren Vale, possesses that petroleum-like character found in a rich Alsatian or German white. It offers up a gorgeous nose of white peaches, flowers, and a hint of orange rind. Textured, intense, and fruit-driven, with copious glycerin as well as body yet refreshing and light on its feet, it will drink well for a year. Marquis Philips is the most exciting wine project to emerge from Australia, and perhaps the New World, in the last year. Run, don't walk to a client of The Grateful Palate and secure as much as you can of these wines.This must be the most exciting development that has occurred in the Southern Hemisphere over the last several years. Marquis Philips is a partnership between highly talented winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis and their American importer, Dan Philips (of The Grateful Palate). I favorably reviewed the stunning debut values of the Marquis Philips range in the 2000 vintage. Remarkably, the 2001s are even more amazing, and probably for the price, the greatest red wine values in existence ... anywhere! Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283