The deep crimson-colored 2006 The Derelict Vineyard Grenache is redolent of garrigue, lavender, and black cherry aromas. Dense, layered, and sweetly fruited, it will deliver pleasure over the next six years. D’Arenberg has been owned and operated by the Osborn family since its inception in 1912. The portfolio, with a focus on the Rhone varieties, is wide ranging and value-oriented from top to bottom. The winery produces a bevy of value priced reds and whites that were reviewed in Issue 178. They should not be overlooked. At the higher end of the portfolio there is one white wine on which to report. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.darenberg.com.au

Firm in texture, with blackberry and rhubarb flavors. A green edge gets in the way after a couple of sips. Best after 2009. 400 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

The sort of wine one imagines early Australian settlers gulped down—big and burly in the mouth and a bit warm, rough and dusty on the finish. Hints of mint-accented cherry fruit and earthy notes.——J.C.(2/1/2009)—— 85