The opaque purple 2006 “Hard Yards” Shiraz, aged for 15 months in used American oak, offers superb aromatics for a wine of its modest price. It reveals spice box, pepper, mocha, and blueberry compote, followed by a medium to full-bodied wine with concentrated, ripe, sweet black fruits, a firm structure, and a pure finish. Although most purchasers will opt for drinking it near term, it will take on additional nuances with 2-3 years of cellaring. It is an outstanding value Importer: Ken Onish and John Gorman, Southern Starz; tel. (714) 892-3030