The 2008 Uncut Shiraz spent 16 months in 100% new, predominantly French oak before bottling without fining or filtration. Captivating aromas of sandalwood, smoked meat, incense, lavender, blueberry, and chocolate lead to a layered, full-bodied, succulent Shiraz with excellent grip and length. Enjoy this pleasure-bent effort over the next 8-10 years. Gemtree makes wine from estate-grown fruit (as they move toward fully biodynamic and organic farming). Gemtree also manages 1500 acres for other growers and sells some of their own grapes to other wineries. However, their focus appears to be on making quality wine as the new Gemtree collection is filled with outstanding value from top to bottom.Importer: Bacchus Importers, Dundalk, MD; tel. (410) 484-2700

Full-bodied almost to the point of excess, this boldly flavored Shiraz features hints of tar and cola on the nose, but more mainstream flavors of blackberries and vanilla on the palate. Savory, meaty nuances provide just enough complexity, folding in hints of maple syrup on the finish. Drink now–2014.——J.C.(2/1/2011)—— 90