($90) Dark ruby. Strikingly aromatic and all over the olfactory map, offering notes of dark cherry, blackcurrant, graphite, violet, rose, Sen-Sen, licorice pastille, underbrush and cracked pepper, all framed by sexy, light, bourbony oak notes. Very rich and full, with terrific cut and lift. The flavors of bright red berries are complicated by sweet pastry hints and tangy minerality. This has wonderful freshness and life for its size and should richly reward cellaring. (The Grateful Palate, Oxnard CA)

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The 2002 Shiraz Block 6 (made from 112-year-old vines cropped at a mere 1-2 tons of fruit per acre) is the antithesis of the Hillside cuvee. Backward and nearly impenetrable, its inky/ruby/purple color is accompanied by high levels of tannin, huge structure, and massive concentration. It requires 3-6 more years to become civilized and accessible. This dense Shiraz saturates the palate with extract and concentration as well as elevated tannin. It is amazing one winery could produce two wines that are so totally opposite. Only consumers with cool cellars and the patience to wait 5-6 years should purchase this blockbuster.

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Very dense, with smoky, licorice-scented black fruit flavors. Firmly tannic on the finish. Needs time to settle down. 200 cases imported.

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