The 2004 Descendant, an old oak-aged blend of 92% Shiraz and 8% Viognier from a 12-year old vineyard, offers up notes of blackberries, ink, sweet truffles, and acacia flowers. There are 1,000 cases of this full-bodied, intense, rich blockbuster. It will drink well for 10-15 years. Importer: Deborah Gray, The Australian Wine Connection, Carlsbad, CA; tel. (760) 770-5446

Lithe, open-textured Shiraz-Viognier blend, offering pretty boysenberry flavors. Feels lighter than most Barossa Shiraz and shows the floral and peach accents of the Viognier. Not quite as seamless as previous vintages, but it has a personality of its own. Drink now through 2012. 1,000 cases made, 300 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Barossa Valley Select to Add