Dense, rich, and complex, the 2002 The Fugue is a Bordeaux blend of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 42% Merlot, and equal parts Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Its dark ruby/purple-tinged color is followed by a sweet nose of subtle new oak interwoven with dried herbs, black currants, cherries, and a touch of smoke. Medium-bodied, ripe, nicely textured, and long with silky tannin, it is best drunk over the next 3-5 years.I consistently enjoy the wines from Nepenthe, a large, cool-climate viticultural management company in South Australia. Their reds and whites tend to be pure, fragrant efforts with crisp acidity as well as loads of fruit, all presented in an elegant style.Importer: Peter Click, Click Imports, Seattle, WA; tel. (800) 859-0689

A blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Merlot, the 2001 The Fugue possesses the most oak characteristics along with deep red and black currant notes intermixed with licorice, cedar, and vanilla. It is an attractive, down-sized Bordeaux blend to drink over the next 3-5 years.Importer: Peter Click, Click Imports, Seattle, WA; tel. (800) 859-0689