Medium-deep garnet-purple colored, the 2010 Benchmark Shiraz offers aromas of warm raspberries, black cherries and game with hints of anise and fertile loam. Medium-full bodied and well-structured with chewy tannins and lively acid, it gives a decent concentration of warm berry flavors and a medium-long finish. Drink it now to 2015. Importer: Wilson Daniels Ltd., St. Helena, CA; www.wilsondaniels.com

9 The cost of entry to Barossa Shiraz has seemingly never been lower, and yet the qualitative bar is being raised by wines like this one, which features bright berry fruit, complex tea-like nuances and a satisfyingly full-bodied, creamy texture. Drink now.——J.C.(7/1/2011)—— 89