The 2005 Shiraz “Samantha’s Garden” is from the Clare Valley. Purple-colored, it has a fragrant perfume of floral notes, violets, blueberry, and blackberry liqueur. In an elegant style, it has layered ripe fruit, a velvety texture, well-integrated tannins and plenty of complexity on the mid-palate. There is enough structure for 3-5 years of evolution and it will drink well through 2020. Two Hands is a negociant operation run impeccably by Michael Twelftree. It reflects the best that can be sourced from all over South Australia. The packaging provides some serious design competition to Dan Philips’ Grateful Palate and R Wines portfolio. Importer: Terlato Wines International, Lake Bluff, IL; www.twohandswines.com; Also tasted: 2007 Riesling “The Wolf” (82)

Bright and jazzy. Amazingly generous with its exotic pomegranate-infused cherry and plum flavors, which roll along on an open texture that lets the flavors sail through the air beautifully. There's a lovely touch of mineral on the finish. Drink now through 2015. 193 cases made.??–HS??Region: Australia / Clare Valley Select to Add

Ruby-red. Exuberant strawberry and raspberry nose boasts wonderful clarity; notes of Asian spice and orange peel add complexity. Suave and silky in texture but also fresh and juicy, with explosive red berry flavors and tangy minerality. I barely noticed the tannins in this one. Deepens and expands on the long, spicy finish, where the fresh red fruit flavors are repeated. This is seriously delicious.