A strong effort for that vintage, the 2000 Shiraz Lloyd Reserve (from vines planted in 1919) boasts a dense purple color in addition to a big, earthy, blackberry-scented nose revealing hints of new saddle leather, pepper, and loamy soil. Full-bodied, with outstanding purity, an impeccable texture, sweet tannin, and a long, rich finish, it should be consumed over the next 8-10 years. Kudos to proprietor/winemaker Mark Lloyd, referred to as the “renaissance man” by many of his peers.Importer: Robert Whale Selections, New World Wines Pty., Washington, DC; tel. (202) 237-5200

Big and generous on the nose, solid in the mouth, offering ripe plum and tobacco flavors, finishing with a peppery character that lasts nicely. Drink now through 2008. 400 cases made, 100 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

Bright medium ruby. Captivating, expressive aromas of cassis, bitter chocolate, graphite, black cardamom, chicory, baking spices and minerals. Sweet, lush, layered and deep, with complex, pliant flavors of red berries, iron, tobacco and earth, all lifted by baking spices. Wonderfully generous shiraz , finishing with sweet tannins and superb spicy length. Transcends the vintage.

Cocoa and mocha accent red fruit and a little eucalyptus on the nose. Black fruit on the palate falls into a vortex of the usual accoutrements–toffee, mocha and caramel. Chewy but soft tannins complete the picture; though the flavors are dark, the wine isn’t at all unapproachable. It’s a teddy bear.——D.T.(5/1/2004)—— 88