The 2008 The Wild Pixie is a blend of 95% Shiraz and 5% Roussanne aged for 12 months in mostly seasoned French oak. Opaque purple-colored, it offers up an enticing perfume of cedar, smoke, game, bacon, and blueberry. Firm and flavorful on the palate (from fruit picked before the heat wave), this savory, lengthy wine will evolve for 2-3 years and deliver prime drinking from 2012 to 2020. The d’Arenberg portfolio is loaded with values. The winery works with over 140 growers to fashion their superb blends. For the 2008 vintage, the entry-level The Stump Jump series has been expanded.Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Dark, spicy fruit, herbs and mocha on the nose. A big wine with soft tannins, it is aromatic and complex. Overall very moreish.