Deep garnet-purple in color, the 2010 Michael Shiraz is a little closed on the nose to begin, with savory scents of raw meat and yeast extract over a core of black plums, crushed blackberries and mulberries plus a touch of pepper. Tightly knit and well-structured in the mouth, it has a firm level of rounded tannins, lively acid and a long, layered finish. Drink it from 2014 to 2024+. Importer: Treasury Wine Estates, Napa, CA

Matured 14 months in new French (61%) and new American oak (39%), Wynn’s 2008 Michael Shiraz gives a very deep garnet purple color and pronounced fresh blackberry and cassis notes over nuances of dried mulberries, cumin seed, cinnamon stick, cloves and forest floor plus whiff of black pepper and black truffles. Medium to full-bodied with a medium level of very fine tannins, this is a elegantly styled Shiraz with great concentration and a long harmonious finish. Approachable now, it should cellar to 2024+. Importer: Foster’s Wine Estates Americas, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-4500

(South Australia) Dark plum, pepper, eucalyptus, kirsch and fig nose. Pure, black fruit with firm, gritty tannins. Dense, ripe, spicy, berry jam with lots of structure and a dry, leathery tone.