A blend of 65% Shiraz and 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2004 The Bull and the Bear possesses a dense ruby/purple color, tremendous flavor intensity, and abundant creme de cassis notes intermixed with notions of cedar, licorice, blackberries, and currants. The fabulous aromatics are followed by a wine with wonderful purity, richness, and a seamless integration of acidity, tannin, alcohol, and wood. Drink this beauty over the next 7-8 years. Importer: Paterno Imports, Lake Bluff, IL; tel. (847) 604-8900

Defines the modern Oz fruit-bomb style, offering scents of blueberry liqueur alongside hints of vanilla and smoke before exploding on the palate with incredibly luscious, ripe fruit. Full-bodied and creamy-textured, this is a big wine at 15% alcohol, but it shows no sign of heat. Drink now-2012.——J.C.(2/1/2007)—— 91