This wine is dark ruby/purple-hued with plenty of sweet plum, black currant, and cherry fruit interwoven with notes of licorice, scorched earth, and vanilla. The 2002 appears to be more of a cool climate Shiraz (it was a much cooler growing season than in 2001), and therefore possesses more structure and delineation, playing it tighter to the vest than the 2001. It is capable of lasting 5-10 years.American Estates Wines, Inc., Summit, NJ; tel. (908) 273-5060

Firm, almost aristocratic with its fine acidity and rich texture, offering spicy, toasty black cherry, floral and peppery licorice flavors that linger on the chewy finish. Needs time to soften. Better than previously reviewed. Best after 2008. 250 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add