Deep garnet colored, the 2001 Hill of Grace offers aromas of warm red currant, black cherry compote, blackberries and dried Provencal herbs with an earthy undercurrent. Full, rich and well-structured in the mouth, it has crisp acid and a medium to firm level of rounded tannins, and finishes long with up-lifting herbal notes. Drink this one now to 2025+. Importer: Negociants USA, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

The 2001 Shiraz Hill of Grace (100% Shiraz aged 18 months in 100% new French and American oak) is not a blockbuster, but rather a surprisingly elegant, full-flavored Shiraz offering notes of mocha, white chocolate, pepper, blackberry liqueur, and cassis. Fleshy and earthy, with outstanding purity, richness, and overall symmetry, it is a complex, more evolved example of this cuvee. It should age nicely for another 12-15 years. Importer: Negociants, USA, Napa CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

Supple, round and distinctive for the way it balances gamy, meaty notes with rich fruit and spice. Offers black cherry, dark plum and clove character in abundance, while keeping its elements in harmony. Really stretches the flavor spectrum. A very special wine. Best from 2010 through 2025. 70 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Barossa / Eden Valley Select to Add

Readers fortunate enough to latch onto a bottle of the fewer than 300 imported to the U.S. will find themselves with a super bottle of Shiraz that manages to deliver great flavor intensity without relying on excessive weight. Notes of cracked black pepper and herbal nuances add complexity to the liquorous blackberry aromas, building in spicy intensity through the anise-inflected finish. Approachable now, but should drink well through at least 2015.——J.C.(5/1/2007)—— 93