The 2006 Oracle Shiraz spent 22 months in French oak, 50% new. Opaque purple-colored, it exhibits a captivating nose of toasty oak, truffle, mineral, violets, black pepper, blueberry compote, and blackberry. Glossy on the palate with superb depth, it exhibits gobs of savory blue and black fruits, hints of chocolate, and enough ripe tannin to evolve for 4-6 years. Drink this explosive effort from 2013 to 2026. Kilikanoon’s portfolio includes a number of notable values that are listed at the conclusion of this report. Kilikanoon’s winemaker is the talented Kevin Mitchell. The house specialty is Shiraz but Mitchell does equally well with Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Grenache. Importer: Gavin Speight, Old Bridge Cellars; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Rich and ripe, with a smoky edge to the plush cherry, blackberry and mocha flavors, lingering impressively against polished tannins. Drink now through 2014. 1,000 cases imported. -HS

Dark and chocolaty in style, with hints of earth and espresso oozing in. This is a big, heavy, fudge-like Shiraz that comes across as impressive for its concentration if not for any sense of elegance or finesse. Might improve with aging, but might not; a gamble, so drink it over the next couple of years.——J.C.(2/1/2010)—— 91