The 2006 John Speke GSM is a blend of 50% Grenache, 30% Shiraz, and 20% Mourvedre sourced from vines over 60 years of age. Dark ruby-colored, it has an enticing nose of spice box, scorched earth, forest floor, cherry, and blueberry. Velvety-textured and elegantly-styled, this savory blend conceals enough silky tannin to evolve for 2-3 years and will be at its best from 2011 to 2020. The Colonial Estate is the Australian project of Englishman and Bordeaux chateau owner Jonathan Maltus. His first vintage in Australia was 2002. The entry level wines are line-priced at $30 offering excellent bang for the buck.Importer: Single Vineyard Imports, www.maltus.com

The 2005 John Speke GSM is composed of 50% Grenache, 30% Shiraz, and 20% Mourvedre. Grapes were sourced from vines ranging in age from 60 to 100 years located near Nuriootpa. The nose features notes of spice box, damp earth, truffle, kirsch, black raspberry, and blueberry muffin. Velvety-textured and elegant on the palate, the wine offers serious depth and concentration, gobs of red and black fruits, and a long, pure finish. Drink this hedonistic effort over the next 12-15 years. The Colonial Estate is the Australian project of Englishman and Bordeaux chateau owner Jonathan Maltus. His 45 hectares in Saint-Emilion encompass Le Dome, Ch. Laforge, Clos Nardian, and Ch. Teyssier. His first vintage in Australia was 2002. Current production is up to 25,000 cases.Importer: USA Wine West, San Rafael, CA, Tel. (800) 485-5753 for John Larchet, The Australian Premium Wine Collection