2007 Ancient Way Shiraz

Inky purple. Superripe aromas of cassis, cherry preserves and dark chocolate, with complicating notes of licorice and mint. Densely packed and chewy, offering palate-coating black and blue fruit flavors that show serious depth and building sweetness. A hint of smoked meat comes up on the long, clinging finish, which is framed by broad, pliant tannins. I’m not exactly sure what I’d serve with this but it would definitely have to be part of a dead mammal and it would be roasted, braised or grilled.

Inky purple. Superripe aromas of cassis, cherry preserves and dark chocolate, with complicating notes of licorice and mint. Densely packed and chewy, offering palate-coating black and blue fruit flavors that show serious depth and building sweetness. A hint of smoked meat comes up on the long, clinging finish, which is framed by broad, pliant tannins. I'm not exactly sure what I'd serve with this but it would definitely have to be part of a dead mammal and it would be roasted, braised or grilled.

Inky ruby. Potent mulberry and blueberry aromas show distinct ripeness and a volatile topnote, picking up smoky Indian spice and floral elements with air. Deep, velvety and warm (there's 15.5% alcohol here), with intense dark berry compote flavors and notes of licorice, singed plum and dark chocolate. Weighty, sweet and on the brooding side, with strong finishing notes of olive tapenade and dark fruit liqueur. If you define quality in a wine by its finesse, this isn't the one for you; on the other hand, if you're after a wine that makes a serious power statement, look no further.