The peppery, blackberry and black currant-scented 2003 Shiraz Lodge Hill offers hints of earth, saddle leather, roasted meat, and licorice. Readers who are wondering about Jim Barry’s flagship offering, the Shiraz Armagh, should refer to issue #155, where both the 2001 and 2002 received fabulous reviews. I have not yet tasted the unreleased 2003 The Armagh. However, I did recently taste the 1989 Shiraz The Armagh, and rated it 93 points. It is a magnificent wine still on the upside of its potential. These cuvees can easily last 20-25 years. Importer: Negociants, USA, Napa CA; tel. (707) 259-0993

Creamier and fuller than other Clare Shirazes at its price point, this bottling offers spice, plum and sweet tart flavors. The drawback for me is a creamy-sweet lactic aroma—like a nose full of cheesecake—but that might be a turn-on for others. Imported by Negociants USA, Inc.——D.T.(12/1/2005)—— 85