I am not a big fan of fortified Shiraz, but when it is done as well as d’Arenberg’s, it is impressive. The superb 2000 Vintage Declared Shiraz boasts chocolatey notes of creosote, espresso roast, and earth in its full-bodied, chewy, dense, powerful personality. The alcohol is well-integrated in this blockbuster fortified Shiraz that should age nicely for 15-20 years.Chester Osborn, the remarkable person behind this enormous array of both impeccably high quality and value-priced wines, deserves considerable accolades for what he is able to achieve at all price ranges. If you love Australian wines, d’Arenberg is a winery to seek out as these offerings all possess abundant soul as well as character. In short, the accolades that proprietor/winemaker Chester Osborn receives not only from The Wine Advocate, but virtually everybody in the wine world, are all well deserved.Importer: Rob McDonald, Old Bridge Cellars, Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552