The exquisite 1996 Shiraz Eagle Pyrenees is impressive. Aged completely in French oak, this medium to full-bodied, vibrant, racy Shiraz possesses uncanny elegance and style for this grape, which usually turns out blockbuster heavyweights. Good acidity gives the wine freshness and delineation. Smoky oak is intertwined with blackberry and black currant fruit flavors in this medium to full-bodied, dense, concentrated, backward wine. As it sits in the glass, pepper, cherry liqueur, and roasted herbs emerge. Anticipated maturity: 2002-2014. A Ted Schrauth Selection, Old Vines Australia, imported by Epic Wines, Santa Cruz, CA; tel. (408) 689-9080, and C. Daniele, New York, NY; tel. (212) 534-3421