The opaque purple-colored 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot Moda, made in the Amarone style (meaning raisined grapes fermented when they are high in sugar), boasts notes of licorice, plums, figs, black currants, and background spicy new oak. This distinctive wine is large-framed, with considerable body, glycerin, and extraction. With sweet tannin in addition to well-integrated acidity, this chewy blend does not taste like an Amarone, but it is clearly very ripe. Drink it over the next 10-12 years.Imported by USA Wine West LLC, San Rafael, CA; tel. (800)-485-5753, for John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection

This singularly-styled, dark garnet/purple-colored 1999 Australian red was made from extremely late-harvested Cabernet Sauvignon (90%) and Merlot (10%) that was allowed to raisin before fermentation. Dense, full-bodied, chewy, and concentrated, it reveals notions of new saddle leather, creme de cassis, smoke, asphalt, tobacco, and a subtle hint of prunes. It easily conceals its 14.5% alcohol. Drink it over the next 12-15 years.Importer: John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection, imported by USA Wine West, San Rafael, CAphone: (800)-485-5753

This distinctive wine, made from dried Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot fruit, reveals a dense ruby/purple/garnet color, and a big, sweet, toasty nose filled with aromas of melted asphalt, black currants, damp earth, and plums. Rich, full-bodied, and chewy, this is a singularly styled wine which, to my palate, is successful. It is not for everyone, but for serving with full-flavored dishes, or at the end of a meal, it is an intriguing and commendable effort. Moreover, it should drink well for 10-12+ years. Imported by The Australian Premium Wine Collection, John Larchet, USA Wine West, LLC, San Rafael, CA; phone: (800)-485-5753 and Chicago Brands, Chicago, IL; tel. (312) 466-9300.