The 2000 Sarah's Blend (40% Shiraz, 33% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 27% Merlot) exhibits a dense ruby/purple color and aromas of blackberry and cherry fruit. It is a textured, medium to full-bodied, fruit-driven wine with outstanding purity, surprising length, and no hard edges. Consume it over the next 4-5 years. At $13, this show-stopper is an excellent value. This promising project between winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis, and Grateful Palate importer, Dan Philips, already appears to be a brilliant collaboration. This knock-out offering is New World-ish, with exceptionally ripe, concentrated, chewy fruit, a touch of oak (mostly new American), and abundant hedonism, texture, and flesh.Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Firm in texture, nicely packed with plum, cherry and mint aromas and flavors that persist nicely on the lively, oaky finish. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now through 2006. 2,000 cases made, 1,900 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / South Australia Select to Add

Writes the book on how to make a wine filled with gigantic jammy fruit that’s nonetheless dry, balanced and harmonious. The Cabernet contributes blackcurrants and structural tannins. The Syrah brings a peppery richness, while Merlot adds soft fruitiness. You can actually taste each varietal, yet the wine hangs together, dry and rich. Best Buy. ——S.H.(6/1/2002)—— 93