($105) Deep violet. Boysenberry, blueberry, dark plum, baking spices, smoked meat, cured tobacco and a hint of graphite on the flamboyant nose. Explosively flavored and rich, with lush dark berry, plum preserve and fruitcake flavors lifted by notes of candied licorice and minerals. A sweet, fat wine that's also focused, even elegant, with a suave, spicy finish featuring big but harmonious tannins. Shows impressive energy for the vintage, too.

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The 2003 The Factor (100% Shiraz aged 24 months in old French oak) is a riveting effort that displays the exquisite talent of David Powell. Its smoky perfume of blackberry liqueur intermixed with cherries, acacia flowers, and espresso roast is followed by a full-throttle, multi-layered palate as well as a 60-second finish. This stunning Shiraz should drink well for 10-15+ years.

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Dense and distinctive Shiraz that provides a lavish mouthful of licorice- and tar-accented purple plum, blueberry and sweet spice flavors. Framed with oak, but not at all woody. The finish rolls along unperturbed by the fine-grained tannins. 1,200 cases made.

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