The 1999 Springflat Shiraz has dense, opaque purple color, a real intense, minty, creme de cassis nose, with some spicy new oak. The wine is certainly not shy at 15.3% alcohol, but the power is well-harnessed, and the wine is primarily a big, full-bodied, thick, juicy fruit bomb with plenty of texture, purity, and length. It should drink well for 7-8 years, perhaps longer. With a production at 1,200 cases, there is modest availability. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283

Has impressively ripe flavors, dripping with blackberry, plum and anise on a steely frame, finishing with Victoria's distinctive crispness. Give it time to develop. Best from 2004 through 2010. 1,200 cases made, 700 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Victoria / Heathcote Select to Add