The purple-colored 2006 House Block Cabernet Sauvignon was aged in French oak for 18 months. It offers up an attractive bouquet of spice box, cassis, black cherry, and earth notes. On the palate it is easygoing with layers of succulent fruit, excellent balance, and a medium-long finish. It can be enjoyed over the next 8-10 years. The tiny St. Mary’s winery is literally within spitting distance of the Coonawarra demarcation line and its omission is a political hot potato. Be that as it may, proprietor/vigneron Barry Mulligan is making wine on a par with most of the wineries in the more prestigious GI.Importer:Southern Starz, Huntington Beach, CA; tel. (714) 892-3030

The 2004 House Block Cabernet Sauvignon spent 18 months in French oak. Dark ruby in color, the oak influence is revealed in the wine’s aromatics along with red and black currants. Made in a lean (some would say elegant) style, with a Bordeaux-like personality, cherry-flavored fruit makes an appearance along with moderate ripe tannins. With good concentration and length, this Cabernet will drink well over the next 6-8 years. Importer: Ken Onish and John Gorman, Southern Starz; tel. (714) 892-3030

The deep ruby/purple-tinged 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon House Block (100% Cabernet Sauvignon aged 24 months in old French and American oak) exhibits aromas of eucalyptus/mint, cedar, licorice, spice box, and black currants. This elegant, medium-bodied effort reveals surprisingly tart acidity. Drink it over the next 5-6 years. Importer: Ken Onish & John Gorman, Southern Starz, Huntington Beach, CA; tel. (714) 892-3030