The 1999 Shiraz Petrel Reserve exhibits creamy American oak notes interwoven with minty, earthy, full-bodied, black fruit flavors. Although monolithic, it is loads of fun to taste and drink. Moreover, it manages to conceal its lofty 14.5% alcohol. Drink it over the next 7-8 years. Founded in 1850 by Frank Potts, Bleasdale is one of Australia’s oldest family-owned wineries. This well-run operation produces numerous cuvees offering considerable flavor authority as well as value.Importer: Ken Onish & John Gorman, Southern Starz, Huntington Beach, CA; tel. (714) 892-3030