The fully mature 2002 Firebreak reveals notions of strawberries, cherries, loamy soil, and tar. Medium-bodied and food-friendly, it is best drunk over the next 1-3 years. Shafer Vineyards, one of the most impeccably run wineries in the world, is a wonderful family operation that deserves all the success they have earned. Tel. (707) 944-2877; Fax (707) 944-9454

Continues the tradition of ripe, intricate Firebreaks of recent years, although not quite in the same class as the ’99, ’00 or ’01. Still, it shares the intense cherry and cassis fruit, smooth, complex tannins and delicious veneer of oak. Drink now. ——S.H.(10/1/2005)—— 91