Medium garnet colored, 2004 Abednego Shiraz Grenache Mourvedre gives evolved aromas of spice cake, dates, fig paste, leather, tobacco and an earthy undercurrent of damp loam and underbrush. Medium to full bodied with firm fine tannins and refreshing acidity, this is a balanced and elegant style for this blend. Mature and drinking well now, it should continue to cellar to 2018. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd., St. Helena, CA; www.wilsondaniels.com

(South Australia) Earth, prune and lifted fruit bouquet. Some lightness and perfume on the palate with superior pruney notes.

The 2002 Abednego is a blend of 36% Mourvedre, 33% Grenache, and 31% Shiraz sourced from vines at least 50 years of age. Very Rhone-like, it has an alluring perfume of damp earth, garrigue, kirsch, and black raspberry. Velvety and full-flavored, it has excellent depth and length. Drink it over the next 10-12 years. Grant Burge and Burge Family Winemakers have a familial but not philosophical connection. One is big, the other an artisanal, hands-on operation. Not that big is bad as this Grant Burge lineup demonstrated.Importer: Wilson-Daniels, Helena, CA; www.grantburgewines.com.au