Deep garnet colored with a tinge of purple, the 2008 Explorateur Shiraz reveals pronounced notes of creme de cassis, espresso, tar and licorice with evolving-aroma hints of fruit cake, black olives and salami. Very full bodied, rich and voluptuous in the mouth, the generous spiced black fruit flavors are well contrasted by medium to firm grainy tannins and refreshing acidity, finishing long and layered. Delicious now, it should cellar to 2019+. The Colonial Estate does not currently have a USA importer.

The 2006 Explorateur Old-Vine Shiraz was blended with a dollop of Cabernet Sauvignon. Purple-colored, the nose reveals smoke, meat, scorched earth, pepper, and blueberry. Easygoing on the palate, it has a forward personality, decent depth, and savory flavors. Drink this friendly effort over the next eight years. 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

There are 9,000 cases of the 2005 Explorateur Old Vines Shiraz (with 12% Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend). It was aged for 12 months in French oak and bottled unfiltered. Purple-colored, it displays reticent aromas of toast, scorched earth, tar, blueberry, and blackberry. Ripe and sweet, with some elegance, it has good depth, moderate tannin, and a medium-long finish. Give it 3-4 years in the cellar and drink it through 2020. 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