The purple-colored 2007 Morambro Creek Shiraz delivers a perfume of violets, pepper, black cherry, and blueberry. Medium-bodied, on the palate mineral notes and savory black fruits emerge leading to a fruit-filled finish. This tasty Shiraz will evolve for 1-2 years and drink well from 2011 to 2019. Importer: Kysela Pere & Fils, Winchester, VA; tel. (540) 722-9258

Sometimes the biggest, oakiest wine in a producer’s range doesn’t get the highest score. This is loaded up with oak nearly to the detriment of the fruit, with vanilla and cedar being the dominant flavors, although there’s just sufficient red berried fruit to support it. A steakhouse red, or one that can be sipped as a meal itself.——J.C.(9/1/2010)—— 88