Deep garnet-purple colored, the 2009 Lake Doctor Shiraz displays notes of warm blackberries and black currant cordial with underlying anise and black pepper notes. Medium to full-bodied with a medium level of chewy tannins, it gives a good concentration of blackberry and pepper flavors and lively acid, finishing medium-long. Drink it now to 2015. Importer: Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; www.oldbridgecellars.com

Packs a punch, delivering plenty of weight and intensity. The blend includes 6% Viognier, but its no apricot-laden Shiraz-Viognier, instead offering up slightly peppery, meaty, plummy notes and a rich mix of spicy-savory dark fruit.——J.C.(11/1/2009)—— 87