The 2005 Shiraz Miamba saw 50% of the wine barrel-fermented and aged in new American oak, the balance in seasoned French and American oak. It offers up aromas of smoke, cedar, licorice, blueberry, and blackberry. Although it has plenty of flavor, it becomes lean in the finish. Nevertheless, it is a very good value. Grant Burge and Burge Family Winemakers have a familial but not philosophical connection. One is big, the other an artisanal, hands-on operation. Not that big is bad as this Grant Burge lineup demonstrated.Importer: Wilson-Daniels, Helena, CA; www.grantburgewines.com.au

Soft and fleshy in texture, with slightly pruny dark plum fruit and a charming hint of black licorice. Supple tannins frame the crisp finish. Seems a bit shy aromatically; try checking it again in 2008, as it should evolve relatively rapidly.——J.C.(11/1/2007)—— 88