The 1998 Dry Red No. 1 is a Bordeaux blend dominated by Cabernet Sauvignon (80-85%) with the rest Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and a touch of Malbec. Its finesse, character, complexity, and stature cause it to stand out in a tasting. An individualistic expression of a Cabernet-based wine, it offers notes of red and black currants, minerals, olives, leather, earth, and smoke. This beautifully pure, finely etched, stylish effort requires 2-3 more years of bottle age. It should last for nearly two decades.Importer: Old Bridge Cellars (Rob McDonald), Napa, CA; tel. (707) 258-9552

Plush, generous and brimming with personality. A spicy red with gamy pepper and earth notes weaving through the supple red cherry and beet flavors. Attractive already. Best after 2003. 200 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Victoria / Yarra Valley Select to Add

Deep red. Aromas of currant, loam, dark chocolate and smoky oak. Intensely flavored but much dryer than the shiraz, with firm acids giving it strong backbone. Finishes with strong smoky oak notes and slightly drying tannins. Still quite young despite the less primary aromas.