The 2005 Shiraz was aged for 14 months in 40% new French and 25% new American oak. Purple/black in color, the nose reveals scorched earth, smoke, espresso, blueberry, and blackberry. This leads to a full-bodied wine with gobs of black fruit flavors, excellent depth and concentration, and a long, pure finish. This Shiraz lacks only complexity but that may come with time. Drink it over the next 8-10 years.Importer: Click Wine Group, Seattle, WA; tel. (800) 859-9689

Fairly priced, this offers a full-bodied mouthful of ripe fruit and soft tannins. Blackberry and vanilla notes are followed by hints of caramel and cinnamon in the mouth. A drink-now wine that’s easy to like.——J.C.(3/1/2008)—— 89