The 1999 Descendant is a blend of 92% Shiraz and 8% Viognier from a five-year old vineyard. There are 220 cases of this cuvee, which spends 18 months in used French barrels prior to bottling. Its dense purple color is followed by blackberry, creme de cassis, and floral aromas, huge body, terrific fat and glycerin, and a seamless, decadently rich finish. It is a tour de force in pleasure. This wine not only makes for compelling drinking, but it is also a huge amount of fun, and isn't that what it's all about? If I had to give an award to Australia's finest winemaker in 2001, it would be hard not to consider David Powell.Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Plush and distinctive, a rich red with a sense of refinement that allows the spicy berry and plum flavors to sail. Texture is polished, and the flavors linger enticingly, picking up shades of floral and herbal notes. Drink now through 2009. 220 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add