The blockbuster 1999 Shiraz Lloyd Reserve (fashioned from vineyards planted in 1920) boasts an impenetrable purple color in addition to strikingly provocative aromas of blackberries, violets, minerals, and camphor. Enormously constituted with full body, sweet tannin, oodles of blackberry, cherry, and cassis fruit, intermixed with licorice and spice, this opulent, lush Shiraz appears to be more evolved than previous vintages. While already accessible, it appears set for a long life. Anticipated maturity: now-2016.Importer: New World Wines / Appellation Imports, Washington, DC; tel. (888) 591-4009

Dark, dense and chunky, most impressive for its bulging core of berry and cherry fruit, shaded with exotic spice and cedar notes as the flavors linger on the firm finish. Drink now through 2010. 140 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

Very deep ruby-red. Heady, superripe aromas of briary cassis, plum, prune, tar and spices, with tightly integrated cedar and chocolatey oak. Ripe but not quite overripe; powerful yet succulent, revealing some spirity warmth. Its intense dark fruit flavors and assertive oak are framed by firm, drying tannins. Finishes with lingering suggestions of tar, leather and smoked oysters.