Rich and tannic, with earthy notes shouldering past the solid plum and berry fruit. Best after 2005. 300 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add

A wine for both fruit fanciers and intellectuals is the 2001 Shiraz l’Oizeau from McLaren Vale. Its dense ruby/purple color is followed by a big, earthy perfume of blackberries, cranberries, black currants, pepper, and minerals. Full-bodied, impressively endowed, pure, multidimensional, and long, it is surprisingly accessible. However, 1-3 years of bottle age will be beneficial. It should keep for a decade or more.Imported by USA Wine West, San Rafael, CA; tel. (800) 485-5753 for John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection.

Goes for complexity over power, offering layers of spice and chocolate around a modest core of dark berry and anise flavors. Finishes with fine tannins. Best from 2004 through 2008. 600 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / McLaren Vale Select to Add