This red offers cherry and blueberry flavors, with modest toast notes echoing in the background. Hints of tar and sweet spice add an edge on the fleshy finish. Drink now through 2023. 4,230 cases made, 650 cases imported.??–AZ??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Paarl Select to Add

Distinctive, with roasted mesquite, blackberry and black currant fruit racing along a mouthwatering graphite note. The long, smoky finish lets an espresso hint linger. Drink now. 6,000 cases made.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Paarl Select to Add

With 16 months in French and American oak, it should not be a surprise that this wine is as rich and wonderfully wood-spiced as it is. Earthy spice by way of clove, cinnamon sticks, anise root and cigar box bring the typical dark fruit flavors to another level. Balanced and drinkable now with a finish reminiscent of a tanned hide.——L.B.(3/1/2011)—— 89

Sleek and racy, with mouthwatering acidity keeping the red currant, fig and raspberry ganache flavors lively, while graphite and fruitcake hints flitter through the fleshy finish. Drink now through 2010. 500 cases made.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Paarl Select to Add

This full-bodied, spicy, savory Shiraz has all of the stylish hallmarks of the Backsberg wines; assertive but elegant, complex but fun, it starts with aromas of blackberry, smoke and leather and in the mouth, is full, round and supple with a delicious finish. It’s a big wine that can age but is enjoyable now.——S.K.(3/1/2008)—— 90