Head Wilton Hill Shiraz Barossa Ranges Wilton Hill is comprised of an old vine vineyard, perched atop the Barossa Ranges as it encroaches on the Eden Valley. The soil, a complex polyglot of sandy loams, limestone and ferrous ironstone over a substrata of mottled quartz. The geology is arguably more intrinsic to the makeup of the wine than the variety, or maker Alex Heads deft hand. This is top- drawer Barossa Grand Cru speaking. Make no mistake! Think a swirl of dark fruits, aromas of iodine, lilac and violet, punctuated with a swab of tapenade-encrusted tannins. Dig deeper and there are scents of smoked meats, thyme, lavender and mocha, trailing across a peppery trail of freshness that tows this full-bodied wine long. Sumptuous gear that is ready for an aggressive decant, or extended time in the cellar.

A cool climate Shiraz that resembles many of the finest french examples. Lovely graphite notes, pepper, spices, and elegant fruit weaved in for good measure. Medium bodied. Elegant and age-worthy.

PENFOLDS Superblend 802A Cabernet Shiraz, South Australia

Bruno & George SVS Drainings Shiraz, Barossa Valley The brethren to the regular Shiraz bottling on one hand, yet this is the quintessential Barossan experience, at least from a more traditional perspective. Think beef stock, black fruit allusions, baby back ribs, vanilla pod oak and a sachet of Indian spice. from clove to turmeric. This complex potpourri melds with a long linger of bitter cocoa and cinnamon, derived from the longer period spent in newer oak. A powerful and indomitable tour de force. Built for a long haul in the cellar.