The 1997 Shiraz offers attractive kirsch and black cherry notes in its nose and flavors. However, its intrusive acidity and lavish oak kept my score conservative. It is a medium to full-bodied wine boasting 13.9% alcohol. Cleanly made in an accessible style, it should be consumed over the next 1-2 years before the fruit fades and the acidity takes over. I think the Australians are onto something with this richly fruity, exuberant, muscular Chardonnay that can stand on its own without any assistance from oak.Importer: American Estates Wines, Summit, NJ; tel. (908) 273-5060