Blended of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz, the 2008 The Formula Cabernet Shiraz displays a deep garnet color with a slight hint of brick and notes of kirsch, potpourri, blueberry preserves and licorice, plus hints of dark chocolate and hazelnuts. Very concentrated and full-bodied in the mouth, it gives an abundance of ripe, spicy, nutty flavors nicely offset by lively acid and a medium level of grainy tannins, finishing long. Drink this one now to 2017. Importer: Ronnie Sanders, Vine Street Imports, Philadelphia, PA; www.vsimports.com

The purple-colored 2006 The Formula Cabernet Sauvignon (65% Barossa)-Shiraz (35% Adelaide Plains) displays an expressive bouquet of spice box, violets, blueberry, and blackcurrant that jumps from the glass. Forward and mouth-filling on the palate with plenty of succulent fruit, this ripe, lengthy effort lacks only complexity. At this price who cares? All four of the Small Gully offerings deliver outstanding value.Importer: Vine Street Imports, Philadelphia, PA; Tel: (215) 533-WINE

The 2005 The Formula Cabernet-Shiraz is a 50-50 blend. Purple/black in color, it has an enticing bouquet of violets, spice box, black currant and blackberry. Mouth-filling, ripe, and dense, this lengthy effort is also a great value. Small Gully Wines is a partnership between winemaker Stephen Black and vineyard owner Robert Bader. The portfolio is loaded with remarkable values that should strike a resonant chord in our difficult economy.Importer: Ronnie Sanders, Vine Street Importers, Philadelphia, PA; tel. (215) 533-WINE