The 2003 “Jarrah” Shiraz is the product of a hot, dry vintage. Purple-colored, the restrained nose offers smoke, scorched earth, and black fruits. This leads to a lean, firm, structured Shiraz that is slightly tart in the finish. Alkoomi is located in the Frankland River region of Western Australia which is noted for its cool climate viticulture.Importer: Jane Delaney, The Ravensvale Group, Naples, FL; alkoomiwines.com.au Also tasted: 2007Late Harvest “White Label” (85)

From a cold climate terroir, the backward 2001 Shiraz Jarrah reveals high tannin in its dense, presently impenetrable personality. Hints of blackberries, currants, and toasty new oak are found in this structured, firm Shiraz. Displaying excellent potential, it requires 2-3 more years of bottle age, and should last for a decade. Importer: The Ravensvale Group (Jane Delaney), Greenwich, CT; tel. (800) 580-0052